Each year, roughly one out of six Americans (or 48 million people) gets sick from foodborne diseases; 128,000 are hospitalized from foodborne diseases; and 3,000 die from foodborne diseases.
The food industry is responsible for producing safe food. Government agencies are responsible for setting food safety standards, conducting inspections, and monitoring food products, including imports.
Consumers also play a huge role in keeping their food safe and wholesome. Simple steps like purchasing foods from an approved source, cooking food thoroughly, practicing good hygiene when handling foods, and proper food storage can help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
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How Michigan Ensures Food Safety
The primary responsibility of the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD) is to assure the safety and wholesomeness of Michigan's food supply. MDARD regularly monitors Michigan's food supply for pesticide residues, micro-organisms, and other substances that would compromise the quality and wholesomeness of the food we eat. That long-standing commitment to a safe food supply has earned Michigan a national reputation for strictly enforcing the state's food and dairy laws.
MDARD inspectors monitor Michigan's food supply at each step in the food chain and helps assure that food stays safe from the farm the farm gate to your dinner plate.
Learn about protecting food at each step in the food chain
Food Safety Efforts in Michigan
How to Report a Food Safety Concern or Violation
If you have a question or concern about food you or your family have purchased or eaten, please contact the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development:
- 800-292-3939
- E-mail MDARD-Info@Michigan.gov.
- Use the MDARD online complaint form
Are You Sick?
If you have become ill and suspect foodborne illness (sometimes called food poisoning), please seek medical attention. You can report the foodborne illness through the local health department in the county where you reside. The health department will ask you questions about your symptoms and meal history. They may find it useful to have access to leftover suspect food and its packaging. Keep it in a sealed plastic bag or container and store it in the freezer. If foodborne illness is confirmed, this food sample may be helpful in determining the source of contamination.