New TV game show teaches food safety

KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - A new program called "Don't Gamble on Food Safety" airs this week using a game show format to teach food safety basics to viewers and contestants alike in a fun and fast-paced setting. Produced by Public Health - Seattle & King County, the episode features real food workers and restaurant inspectors competing in a game of food safety knowledge.

"This format is a very effective way to teach food workers and home cooks how to prepare, store, and serve food correctly to reduce the risk of food borne illness" said Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director and Health Officer for Public Health - Seattle & King County. "The Don't Gamble on Food Safety game show method won a national innovation and model practice award because of its unique approach of combining fun with food safety education."

Part of the "Spotlight on Environmental Health" series, the new episode features long-time restaurant inspector Larry French in the role of the game show host along with program host Morgan Barry. The show even features a cameo appearance by Carolyn Edmonds, Chair of the King County Board of Health, who plays one of the game show judges. In the 30 minute show, viewers will learn:

"Don't Gamble on Food Safety" will be shown this week on King County Television (Channel 22 on Comcast Cable) at the following times:

For other show times over the next few weeks, please visit King County TV. Additionally, viewers may call 206-296-0300 to request "Spotlight on Environmental Health: Food Safety at Home" during any King County viewer request time.

Food borne illness is estimated to cause over 76 million illnesses, 300,000 hospitalizations, and 5000 deaths each year in the United States. "Spotlight on Environmental Health" is produced several times each year to bring King County residents information about environmental health-related topics, including food safety, indoor air, and toxics in the environment.

More information about food safety.

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