When the Government Stops Protecting Your Food
- Aug 21, 2026
- 9:17
- Full Episode
Wharton Associate Professor of Business Economics and Public Policy, Corinne Low explains why food safety is a public good and why families can't realistically take over the government's role in monitoring pathogens, inspecting facilities and responding to outbreaks.
She discusses the consequences of reduced staffing, weakened inspections and changes to disease surveillance—and why these changes can leave consumers more exposed to foodborne illness. The conversation also explores the responsibility of food companies, the long-term cost of cutting corners and why government oversight can give families the freedom to simply trust the food they buy.
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Brief Summary
Corinne Low discusses the cyclospora outbreak and government failures in food safety.
Key points
- Food Safety and Public Responsibility. Corinne Low discusses the government's role in ensuring food safety and the implications of its failures.
- The Consequences of Cuts. The reduction of food safety staff has led to increased foodborne illnesses and consumer complaints.
- Trust in Food Producers. The discussion highlights the responsibility of food companies in maintaining safety standards.
Episode highlights
- Food Safety and Public ResponsibilityCorinne Low discusses the government's role in ensuring food safety and the implications of its failures.“Food safety is part of the public good.”0:32Aug 21, 2026
- The Consequences of CutsThe reduction of food safety staff has led to increased foodborne illnesses and consumer complaints.“We're actually at one of the highest levels of foodborne illness.”3:27Aug 21, 2026
- Trust in Food ProducersThe discussion highlights the responsibility of food companies in maintaining safety standards.“Companies have a responsibility to ensure food safety.”5:48Aug 21, 2026
