The over-the-counter (OTC) medication aisle seems stable, but the products within it are constantly evolving. Manufacturers may change formulas for various reasons. These include new scientific findings, updated regulatory guidance from the FDA, efforts to improve effectiveness, or responses to consumer preferences. These changes can sometimes be subtle, but they can impact how a medication…
Pet owners trust that the food, treats, and products they buy for their beloved animals are safe. However, like the human food supply chain, the pet product industry is also subject to recalls due to contamination or safety issues. These recalls are crucial for protecting the health and well-being of our pets. Contamination can come…
The modern kitchen is filled with gadgets designed to make our lives easier and our cooking more efficient. From air fryers to stand mixers, these appliances are generally safe when used correctly. However, due to design flaws, manufacturing defects, or improper use, some kitchen gadgets have been associated with significant safety risks, including fires, burns,…
Parenthood involves making countless decisions to keep your child safe and healthy. This includes choosing the right products, from cribs and car seats to toys and feeding supplies. Over the years, research and tragic experience have revealed that some once-popular baby items pose significant safety risks. In response, regulatory bodies like the U.S. Consumer Product…
The grocery store aisles are filled with products boasting impressive health claims. Labels shout about being “all-natural,” “low-fat,” “multigrain,” or “made with real fruit.” These marketing terms create a “health halo” around products, leading consumers to believe they are making a nutritious choice. However, nutrition experts often warn that these labels can be misleading. They…
The freezer is an essential kitchen tool for preserving food and reducing waste. However, once a frozen item is thawed, the clock starts ticking. Thawing allows dormant bacteria to become active and multiply. While some foods can be safely refrozen, many should not be. Refreezing them can lead to dangerous bacterial growth or a significant…
Grocery stores are masters of consumer psychology. Their primary goal is to maximize sales, which often means guiding you towards products with the highest profit margins, not necessarily the ones that offer the best value or health benefits for you. These “tricks” are subtle but incredibly effective. They play on our habits, our senses, and…
Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods. When imposed, they can have a direct impact on the price and availability of certain items on our grocery store shelves. The United States imports a significant amount of its food, from fresh produce to specialty goods. This makes our food supply susceptible to price increases if new…
You take a bite of your favorite snack, and something seems… different. The recipe you’ve made for years suddenly doesn’t taste the same. It’s a common experience. Food brands quietly change their ingredients all the time for a variety of reasons, from cutting costs to responding to health trends. These reformulations can alter the taste,…
We trust that the bottled beverages we buy—from water and juices to sodas and teas—are safe to drink. Regulatory bodies and manufacturers have systems in place to ensure this. However, mistakes in the complex journey from production to bottling to store shelf can and do happen. When a potential health risk is identified, a recall…