Federal health officials have scaled back FoodNet, the long-standing surveillance program that tracks foodborne illnesses across the United States.
The CDC announced that states will now be required to track only two pathogens — salmonella and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli — instead of the eight previously monitored.
A Program with a Long History
Launched in 1995, the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet) is a collaborative effort among federal and state agencies. Covering approximately 16% of the U.S. population, the program has played a critical role in detecting outbreaks, measuring infection rates, and shaping food safety policies.
States Affected by the Change
The change impacts 10 states that actively participate in FoodNet. These include Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oregon, and Tennessee, as well as select counties in California and New York. Together, these jurisdictions provide a representative picture of national foodborne illness trends.
Pathogens No Longer Required for Monitoring
Before July, health departments tracked infections caused by eight pathogens. In addition to salmonella and E. coli, the list included campylobacter, cyclospora, listeria, shigella, vibrio, and Yersinia. Tracking of these six pathogens is now optional, raising concerns about data consistency across states.
CDC’s Rationale for Scaling Back
CDC spokesperson Paul Prince explained that narrowing the scope will allow FoodNet staff to “prioritize core activities” and “steward resources effectively.” Officials have not confirmed whether recent federal funding cuts influenced the decision, but the timing has fueled speculation that budget pressures played a role.
Concerns from State Officials
Public health leaders in participating states worry the changes could weaken food safety oversight. Carlota Medus, who directs Minnesota’s foodborne disease unit, warned that scaling back surveillance will undermine efforts to understand emerging risks.
She emphasized that FoodNet’s value extends beyond case counts to include in-depth, actionable data.
Importance of Comprehensive Surveillance
For decades, FoodNet has offered unparalleled insight into how foodborne pathogens spread. By collecting detailed information, it has enabled researchers to identify trends, assess the effectiveness of safety measures, and respond quickly to outbreaks.
Reducing the number of pathogens tracked could leave gaps in knowledge and delay outbreak detection.
Potential Risks for Public Health
Experts fear that narrowing the scope of FoodNet will hinder the nation’s ability to evaluate whether food safety is improving. Former FDA food safety official Frank Yiannas cautioned that without comprehensive data, policymakers and scientists “won’t know as accurately as possible if we’re getting better or worse” in controlling pathogens.
Impact on Outbreak Detection
The six pathogens no longer required for tracking — such as listeria and campylobacter — are significant causes of illness, hospitalization, and death. Without systematic monitoring, outbreaks may be harder to detect early, potentially delaying recalls or other interventions that protect consumers.
Role of Federal Partnerships
FoodNet was built as a joint effort between the CDC, the USDA, the FDA, and participating states. Together, these partners have used surveillance findings to inform policies, improve food industry practices, and reduce the burden of illness.
Critics say weakening this partnership diminishes a critical pillar of the nation’s food safety infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
The decision to reduce FoodNet’s scope marks a turning point in U.S. foodborne illness surveillance.
While CDC leaders argue the change will help conserve resources, public health experts warn that reduced monitoring could compromise the nation’s ability to prevent outbreaks and ensure food safety. The long-term implications remain uncertain.
