Renowned lawyer Bill Marler, who has handled high-profile cases involving food safety, takes a cautious approach to eating out due to his extensive experience in the field. He orders well-done steak with no risk-takers like leafy greens or raw meat. This extreme caution is rooted in his past experiences with foodborne illnesses, which have left him aware of potential risks that most people don’t consider. With an estimated 48 million cases of foodborne illnesses occurring annually, Marler believes there’s room for improvement in the US food supply to make it safer.
Marler’s experience as a lawyer has given him a unique perspective on food safety. He orders steak cooked gray and avoids precut salads, fruits, and veggies because he believes these foods are more likely to cause problems. His concern stems from his involvement in cases where contaminated food led to severe illnesses and even death. While Marler is not alone in being cautious about certain foods, his approach has led some chefs at high-end restaurants to question him.
Marler’s approach to food safety may seem extreme, but it’s based on his extensive knowledge of the risks involved. He believes that there’s still room for improvement in the US food supply to make it safer, and he takes a personal responsibility to educate others about the importance of proper food handling and preparation.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/12/14/foodborne-illness-safety-expert-advice