Could Antibiotic Resistance Impact Your Restaurant?

Did you know the CDC estimates that more than 400,000 people in the United States will become ill with infections caused by antibiotic-resistant foodborne bacteria every year?  In fact, studies have shown that resistant bacteria can contaminate food from animals, and in turn, cause infections in humans. And, infections from common antibiotic-resistant foodborne bacteria, such as Salmonella, can cause more severe health outcomes than infections with bacteria that are not resistant to antibiotics.  

So, how can you help protect yourself and your guests from antibiotic-resistant foodborne illnesses? Taking antibiotics only when needed is a critical first step, but it is also important to practice simple food safety tips. These include practicing good hand hygiene – washing hands with soap and water - and sanitizing and disinfecting food-contact surfaces often; avoiding cross contamination; cooking food to the right temperature; and refrigerating food promptly.

Learn more about food safety and antibiotic resistance on the CDC’s website.