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Wood Found in Soup Sparks Public Health Alert—What You Need to Know

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

A public health alert has been issued for a wide range of soup products after it was discovered that cilantro used in the soups was contaminated with wood fragments. 

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) warns that affected soups were sold in institutional locations and retail restaurants across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio—but the reach may expand nationwide.

The alert includes products from well-known brands such as Campbell’s, Molly’s Kitchen, Sysco, Life Cuisine, and Verve, all linked to production facility P-17644. Another affected product under the Crafted Market label from establishment CA-711 is also included.

Among the recalled items:

  • Campbell’s Chicken Tortilla, Wicked Thai, and Baja Chicken Enchilada Soups
  • Molly’s Kitchen Chicken Enchilada, Mexican Chicken Tortilla, and Chicken Chili
  • Sysco Chicken Tortilla Soup
  • Life Cuisine Vital Pursuit Southwest Style Taco Bowl
  • Crafted Market Coconut Chicken Thai Style Soup

These soups have best-by dates ranging from May 2025 to December 2026. View a full list of products here.

If you have any of these products, do not eat them. Return them to the store for a refund or safely discard them. While no injuries have been reported, anyone feeling unwell after consuming these soups should consult a healthcare provider.

Even trace amounts of wood can pose serious health risks. For further information or questions about food safety, contact the USDA at MPHotline@usda.gov.

When Should You Really Replace Your Cutting Board? 

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

A good cutting board is the workhorse of any kitchen, but even the best board has its limits. Over time, daily slicing, dicing, and scrubbing can leave behind grooves and damage that may harbor bacteria. According to the USDA, it’s time to replace your cutting board when deep cuts form or it becomes too worn to clean properly. But how long that takes depends a lot on the material.

Plastic boards are lightweight, affordable, and easy on knives—but not built to last forever. Once you see deep grooves or notice tiny bits of plastic flaking off, it’s time to retire it. Bright-colored boards can help you spot wear sooner. As a general rule, replace plastic cutting boards about once a year. Hand-washing helps extend their life, though they can go in the dishwasher when needed.

Wood boards are the MVPs of cutting surfaces—gentle on knives, durable, and repairable. Scratches and nicks? No problem. A quick sanding and a rub of food-grade mineral oil can bring them back to life. But they require care: never run them through the dishwasher. Always hand wash, dry thoroughly, and store upright so air can circulate. With good maintenance, a wooden board can last for decades. Replace it only when it’s deeply grooved or warped beyond use.

The bottom line: No cutting board is forever, but choosing the right material and giving it proper care can extend its life. Keep it clean and dry, and when it’s finally time to let go, consider that wood boards can be composted—making even your kitchen waste a little more sustainable.

Wood vs Plastic Cutting Board: The Winner May Surprise You

1 min read | Author - Backyard Vitality

Choosing between wood and plastic cutting boards involves weighing several factors, including cleanliness, durability, and ease of maintenance. While plastic cutting boards may seem convenient since they’re dishwasher-safe, studies show they can develop deep knife grooves that harbor bacteria.

 In contrast, wood cutting boards are naturally antimicrobial, providing a hygienic advantage by inhibiting bacterial growth even when knife marks appear.

Wooden boards do require specific care to maintain their structural integrity and longevity. They should never be placed in a dishwasher due to potential damage from heat, water, and detergent, which can cause warping, cracking, or splitting.

To properly clean and care for your wood cutting board, follow these steps:

  1. Scrape off residue: After each use, immediately remove food particles.
  2. Hand wash thoroughly: Use mild soap and warm water to wash the surface.
  3. Air-dry completely: Allow the board to dry naturally to prevent moisture damage.
  4. Regularly condition: Periodically apply plant-based wood wax or mineral oil to nourish and protect the wood. Avoid food-based oils like vegetable or olive oil, which can spoil.

Correctly cleaning and maintaining wood cutting boards ensures you will enjoy them for many years to come.

How to Get 4x More Tomatoes by Doing This One Simple Trick

6 min read | Author - Susan Patterson

Are you dreaming of bigger, tastier tomatoes? I often find myself thinking about ways to have a massive harvest of gorgeous and juicy fruit. Because of this, I have spent the better part of the last ten years studying how to have the best tomatoes ever. Much of what I have learned has come from trial and error. From this, I have a newfound understanding and appreciation of just what tomatoes need to thrive. If you ready for the best tomatoes ever, read on.

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8 Great Uses for Wood Chips in Your Yard and Garden

5 min read | Author - Susan Patterson

Wood chips are a versatile material that you can often get for free. They have many uses for your yard and garden, from the aesthetic to the practical. Read on for some creative ways to use wood chips to improve your property.

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