American Council on Science and Health

The American Council on Science and Health (ACSH) is an association of scientists and doctors who provide the public with information on scientific and public health issues. In the following viewpoint, the association describes food hazards posed by disease-producing agents such as bacteria and parasites. The ACSH argues that food-borne illness outbreaks are more effectively prevented through basic safety precautions on the part of consumers than through government inspection and regulation of food production and processing enterprises. Consumers should recognize that 100 percent risk-free food is an impossible goal and that changes in the food system to reduce risk of illness may significantly raise the cost of food, the organization concludes.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What classifications of food-borne illnesses does the ACSH describe?
2. In what...