This decision has prompted discussion among food safety experts about how these changes might affect outbreak tracking and response across the U.S.
The reduction in surveillance activities relates to the CDC’s Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet). The network, operating since the 1990s, plays a key role in tracking illnesses caused by pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli and Listeria.
According to recent reports, as of July 1, 2025, FoodNet stopped actively monitoring six of the eight previously monitored pathogens and narrowed its focus to only Salmonella and Shiga toxin–producing E. coli (STEC).
In statements to media outlets, the CDC explained that the changes reflect budget limitations and a shift toward newer, more automated data systems. Officials noted that while FoodNet’s scope is evolving, the agency remains committed to foodborne disease surveillance and continues to work with state partners to modernize data collection.
FoodNet is a collaboration among the CDC, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It is widely regarded as one of the country’s most valuable tools for identifying foodborne illness trends, assessing risk factors and guiding food safety policies.
Through laboratory and case data collected from multiple U.S. sites, FoodNet provides insight into how frequently Americans get sick from contaminated food and how well prevention measures are working. Its findings have influenced improvements in food safety standards over the past three decades.
Reactions within the public health community have been mixed. Some experts acknowledge the need for modernization and improved efficiency, while others are concerned that reducing staff-led surveillance may make it harder to detect outbreaks early.
“Essentially, CDC is backing off on one of their best surveillance systems,” said Dr. J. Glenn Morris, director of the Emerging Pathogens Institute at the University of Florida.
He added, “If you want to make foodborne disease go away, then don’t look for foodborne disease. And then you can cheerfully eliminate all of your foodborne disease regulations. My concern is that that is the path down which we appear to be heading.”
The Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists has also highlighted the importance of sustained funding for national coordination, especially for multi-state outbreaks that require rapid information sharing.
While the CDC maintains that core surveillance efforts continue, the reduced level of participation from some states may create gaps in national data. Without consistent reporting, it could take longer to recognize illness clusters that signal contaminated products in the marketplace.
According to the University of Minnesota's Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP), states with fewer resources may need to rely more on automated systems or local public health capacity, which varies significantly across jurisdictions. Experts say the long-term effects will depend on how effectively new digital tools can supplement traditional investigative methods.
For consumers, these developments are a reminder that food safety begins at home. Basic prevention practices remain the best protection against foodborne illness:
For food businesses, maintaining rigorous safety standards is equally critical. Even as surveillance evolves, compliance with the FDA Food Code and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) remains mandatory. Regular staff training and clear hygiene protocols help ensure that foodborne hazards are prevented before they reach customers.
As national systems adapt, consistent food safety education becomes even more valuable. Training and certification programs help employees recognize risks, follow safe handling procedures and uphold regulatory standards.
Building a culture of prevention, rather than reaction, remains the most effective way to safeguard public health - no matter how the national surveillance landscape changes.
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