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K-State Today

April 18, 2017

Science on Tap: The Science and Behavior of Food Safety

Submitted by Michi Tobler

Held in a relaxed setting on the third Wednesday of the month — January through April — Science on Tap features a brief, informal presentation by a K-State scientist followed by lively conversation. The free, interactive program begins 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, at Tallgrass Tap House, 320 Poyntz Ave. Be sure to let the Tap House staff know that you are there for Science on Tap.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 48 million people are sickened and 6,100 die annually from foodborne illnesses. With the assistance of local, state and federal regulations, restaurants and food service operations, such as schools, employ many different safety procedures to protect the safety of food, while home cooks often do not. What do we know about the intersection of foodborne illness prevention, science and human behavior that could help all cooks, home or professional, improve safe food handling? Join us to learn some safety practices and suggestions to change behavior and implement them.

This month's featured scientist is Tracee Watkins, a doctoral student in hospitality and dietetics administration and a graduate research assistant for the Center of Excellence for Food Safety Research in Child Nutrition Programs at K-State. Before coming to K-State, Watkins received bachelor's and master's degrees from Mississippi State University and Mississippi University for Women. Watkins has a passion for the food industry, where she has had a diverse career ranging from a pastry chef to assistant professor of nutrition.

Science in Tap is offered as part of Sunset Zoo's Behind the Science initiative, which is an effort to build our community's enthusiasm for science in a fun and unique way. The program is organized in partnership with Tallgrass Tap House and K-State's Graduate School and Center for Engagement and Community Development.

This is the last Science on Tap of the spring semester. Science on Tap will restart in the fall at the usual time and location. Stay tuned for more information.

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