Risky or Not?

A short podcast about everyday risks from germs

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A frazzled Canadian food microbiologist stands on a beach house deck, clutching raw burger patties and staring in panic at a grill. Behind him, his relaxed family enjoys the seaside view. A cooler and beach towels add to the vacation setting, contrasting his anxiety over a missing meat thermometer.

804. Ben's Missing Thermometer

July 30, 2025 by Don Schaffner

Dr. Don and Professor Ben talk about the risks from eating a beef hamburger cooked by Professor Ben without a thermometer.

Dr. Don - not risky 👍🏼
Professor Ben - not risky 👍🏼

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July 30, 2025 /Don Schaffner
Hamburger, Thermometer, E. coli O157:H7

Image from the video linked below

602. Hamburger Made With a Bun Touching Raw Meat

April 15, 2024 by Don Schaffner

Dr. Don and Professor Ben talk about the risks of eating a burger made with the bun touching the raw meat during cooking.

Dr. Don - risky ☣️
Professor Ben - risky ☣️

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April 15, 2024 /Don Schaffner
Hamburger, Cross-contamination, Beef, E. coli O157:H7

Here's the revised image, with the hamburger a bit hard to see, as if it's under a seat in the car.

589. Hamburger Left in Car for Three Days

March 15, 2024 by Don Schaffner

Dr. Don and Professor Ben talk about the risks of eating a smelly hamburger left in car for three days.

Dr. Don - risky ☣️
Professor Ben - risky ☣️

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March 15, 2024 /Don Schaffner
Beef, Hamburger, Clostridium perfringens

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