Food Safety 101: How Science Keeps Your Food Safe to Eat

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ellen Shumaker to explore the science behind food safety and the systems that protect our food from farm to fork. Dr. Shumaker breaks down what food safety really means from a scientific perspective, how research informs cooking temperatures and storage guidelines, and why simple tools like food thermometers and refrigerator thermometers matter more than we think. We dive into common consumer risks at home and unpack which food safety fears are grounded in science and which are often overstated. Dr. Shumaker also shares insights behind regulations like the FDA Food Code, the role of food safety culture in businesses, and how effective risk communication during recalls and outbreaks helps maintain public trust. Tune in to hear why culture matters just as much as protocols, how to confidently handle leftovers, and why seeing a recall in the news can actually be a sign that the system is working as intended. Learn more about Dr. Shumaker’s work below:NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/agricultural-and-human-sciences/people/ellen-shumaker/ Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic:NC State’s Safe Plates: https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/safe-plates-5/ NC State’s Safe Plates Food Safety Information Center: https://foodsafety.ces.ncsu.edu/safe-plates-food-safety-information-center/ Food Safety: https://www.foodsafety.gov/ Risky or Not Podcast: https://www.riskyornot.co/ The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University.Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha GulabraiMusic: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.