Increasingly, foodborne illness outbreaks are being traced to lettuce, tomatoes, cantaloupe and other fresh fruits and vegetables. The reason may simply be that we are eating more fruits and vegetables and, often eat them raw. Outbreaks related to produce can occur anywhere along the food chain from field or garden to processing, transportation, handling and preparation. Education and implementing best practices are keys to prevention.
Most food borne illness can be caused by biological food safety hazards, including the bacteria, viruses, molds, and parasites found on raw produce that is not carefully washed or prepared. Many of these can make you sick. These microorganisms are a natural part of the environment and can be a problem whether you choose to use organic or conventional gardening methods. To learn more about growing produce safely, follow the five simple steps listed in this Garden to Table: Five Steps to Food Safe Fruit and Vegetable Home Gardening and check out the additional resources below.
