Here’s a nice holiday gift—one less thing to worry about.  The December, 2010 issue of the Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter assures readers that, if used properly, microwave ovens present no health risks.  The newsletter points out that the FDA tests microwave ovens to be sure that they meet safety standards and do not present any radiation hazard.  “The FDA has never received any reports of radiation injury as a direct result of microwave exposure,” says the Tufts publication, “and there is little cause for concern about radiation leakage unless the door latch, hinges or seals are damaged.”

Since November, 2010, when the FDA sent warning letters to four companies that manufacture alcoholic drinks with added caffeine, Food Safety.gov has received many inquiries from consumers seeking explanations.

The Food Safety Modernization Act outlines “the most sweeping change in food safety laws in over seven decades,” according to Helena Bottemiller at Food Safety News. How has this important bill been progressing in its journey toward becoming law?  Slowly.  It passed the House in July, 2009 and then got stalled in the Senate.  Finally, on November 30, 2010, the Senate passed the bill by a resounding 73-25 majority.

Every family party needs a game, right? It distracts the relatives from arguing—or gives them something to argue about. What follows is a short quiz to get them all talking turkey. Those who follow the news may know some answers because turkeys are celebrities this month. Give each guest/pair or team a copy of this quiz (without the answers!) and a pencil, and let them go at it.