Food can be considered one of Americans’ favorite things. According to the United States Agricultural Economic Research Service (USDA), consumers, businesses, and the government spent $1.4 trillion on food and beverages in 2013. So is it surprising that many Americans get food borne illnesses?

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that roughly 1 in 6 Americans (48 million people) are hospitalized, die, or become ill from foodborne diseases every year. Most Americans are under the assumption that foodborne illnesses only occur at restaurants and shops. However, 21% of contaminated food during outbreaks from 2009-2010 were consumed in private homes. Another 48% was consumed in restaurants, says the CDC. Recently, Americans have been on edge since the recent E. Coli outbreak at the popular Chipotle restaurant chain. According to NBC, 42 people were sickened by the bacteria after eating food from Chipotle. The restaurant took action by closing and sanitizing 43 of its stores in Washington and Oregon, although only 11 outlets were actually connected to the sickening of it’s consumers. There has not yet been a determined culprit of the bacteria, but Chipotle tells NBC, “the restaurants are opening in the coming days with a fresh supply of all new ingredients”.

Many people remained concerned on whether or not to return to their local Chipotle. The restaurant chain itself says, “No. It is safe to eat at Chipotle restaurants”. While this is one of many outbreaks of foodborne illnesses that happen yearly, it still has many Americans weary of the food they purchase whether at a restaurant or a grocery store. The CDC says the best ways to prevent foodborne illnesses is to keep all utensils and hands sanitized, avoid swallowing water in pools, cook all meats thoroughly, and avoid consuming any raw materials. The CDC also advises to make sure consumers know their own risk of food poisoning and consult a doctor if any suspicion of a foodborne illness occurs. For now, consumers can go back to enjoying their food from Chipotle without hesitation!