The New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite eradicated from the U.S. in the 1960s, has re-emerged, prompting concerns about its potential impact on the food supply. However, experts, including Dr. Aaron Glatt from Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, state that the screwworm does not pose a threat to food safety as it is primarily an animal health issue. The USDA confirmed the first case in a calf in Texas on June 3, 2026, and has since reported 33 infections in animals across Texas and New Mexico. The USDA emphasizes that meat and dairy products are routinely inspected, and any infected animals are quarantined to prevent contamination. The screwworm is known to infect warm-blooded animals, and while it can occasionally affect humans, the likelihood of encountering this parasite is low for most people in the U.S. The USDA is currently deploying sterile male flies to control the population of screwworms, a method that was previously successful in eradicating the parasite in the 1960s. Additionally, the agency has announced investments to enhance sterile fly production facilities in Mexico and Texas to combat future outbreaks.
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USDA Addresses Risk of New World Screwworm to Food Supply
The USDA has reported a resurgence of the New World screwworm, with confirmed cases in Texas and New Mexico. Experts indicate that while the parasite poses a risk to animal health, it does not compromise the safety of the U.S. food supply. The USDA is implementing measures to control the screwworm population and prevent further outbreaks.
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Could flesh-eating screwworms end up in your beef? USDA reveals risk level
USDA Addresses Risk of New World Screwworm to Food Supply