The documentary “Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food” has won an Emmy in the Outstanding Current Affairs Documentary category. This recognition highlights the impact of the film, which made its debut on Netflix on Aug. 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 underscores its relevance and the urgency of its message about the dangers posed by foodborne illnesses.
Directed by Stephanie Soechtig, known for her impactful works such as “Under the Gun” and “Fed Up,” “Poisoned” delves into the 1993 Jack in the Box E. coli outbreak, which was a pivotal moment in American food safety history. The outbreak, which resulted in numerous illnesses and deaths, spurred significant changes in food safety regulations and practices.
The film also spotlights outbreaks traced to leafy greens and includes interviews with victims of those outbreaks.
The documentary features prominent figures in food safety, including former government officials, industry spokespeople and Bill Marler, a food safety lawyer and publisher of Food Safety News. Marler played a crucial role in advocating for food safety reforms following the Jack in the Box incident. The film also includes testimonies from individuals personally affected by foodborne illnesses, 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 garnered significant attention and acclaim.
Other notable works in the Outstanding Current Affairs Documentary category, included:
“Loudmouth” (BET)
“Love in the Time of Fentanyl” (PBS)
“Mourning In Lod” (Showtime)
“No Accident” (HBO | Max)
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