Thomas Gremillion

Thomas Gremillion oversees the research, analysis and advocacy for the Consumer Federation of America's (CFA) food policy activities. He also monitors food safety activities at USDA, FDA and in Congress, where he advocates for strong food safety prot

What makes this government shutdown different

— OPINION — Government shutdowns have always undermined food safety. USDA inspectors, with starting salaries around $40,000, must work without pay. Many FDA inspectors are furloughed and the agency suspends its

By Thomas Gremillion

/ 2 Oct 2025

What makes this government shutdown different

A new foodborne illness benchmark, just in time for ‘shock and awe’

— OPINION — For nearly a decade and a half, food safety advocates like me have recited CDC’s 2011 foodborne illness estimates: 3,000 deaths. 128,000 hospitalizations. 48 million illnesses

By Thomas Gremillion

/ 7 Feb 2025

A new foodborne illness benchmark, just in time for ‘shock and awe’

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Thomas Gremillion

What makes this government shutdown different

A new foodborne illness benchmark, just in time for ‘shock and awe’