‘Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food’ nominated for an Emmy

The documentary ‘Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food’ has been nominated for an Emmy in the Outstanding Current Affairs Documentary category. This recognition highlights the impact of the film, which debuted on Netflix on August 2, 2023, and sheds light on critical issues surrounding food safety in the United States.

Based on the bestselling book ‘Poisoned: The True Story of the Deadly E. Coli Outbreak That Changed the Way Americans Eat’ by Jeff Benedict, the documentary offers a gripping exposé that resonates with consumers, the food industry, regulators and politicians. The film’s nomination underlines its relevance and the urgency of its message about the dangers of foodborne illness.

Directed by Stephanie Soechtig, known for her impressive works like ‘Under the Gun’ and ‘Fed Up’, ‘Poisoned’ delves into the Jack in the Box E. coli outbreak of 1993, a pivotal moment in American food safety history . The outbreak, which resulted in numerous illnesses and deaths, led to significant changes in food safety regulations and practices.

The film also highlights outbreaks linked to leafy greens and includes interviews with victims of those outbreaks.

The documentary features prominent food safety figures, including former government officials, industry spokespeople and Bill Marler, a food safety attorney and publisher of Food safety news. Marler played a crucial role in advocating for food safety reforms after the Jack in the Box incident. The film also features testimonials from individuals personally affected by foodborne illness, such as Darin Detwiler, who lost his 16-month-old son Riley to E. coli during the outbreak.

“Poisoned” premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in June 2023, where it received widespread attention and acclaim.

The documentary’s Emmy nomination places it alongside other notable works in the Outstanding Current Affairs Documentary category, including:

• “Loudmouth” (BET)
• “Love in the Time of Fentanyl” (PBS)
• “Mourning in Lod” (Showtime)
• “No Accident” (HBO | Max)

A complete list of Emmy nominations can be viewed here.

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