Produce is listed as a potential source of Salmonella infection.

Produce is listed as a potential source of Salmonella infection.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only during harvest
• D. Only after cooking

Answer: (A)

Salmonella contamination isn’t limited to meat and dairy; fresh produce can harbor the bacteria and cause illness when eaten raw. Contamination can occur in multiple ways: contaminated irrigation or wash water, contact with contaminated soil or manure, and cross-contamination from equipment, handlers, or other foods. Since many fruits and vegetables are consumed without cooking, any Salmonella on them isn’t reliably killed before eating. Outbreaks have been linked to leafy greens, sprouts, melons, and other produce, illustrating that the pathogen can reach produce at various points from farm to table. So, it’s true that produce can be a source of Salmonella infection.

Salmonella contamination isn’t limited to meat and dairy; fresh produce can harbor the bacteria and cause illness when eaten raw. Contamination can occur in multiple ways: contaminated irrigation or wash water, contact with contaminated soil or manure, and cross-contamination from equipment, handlers, or other foods. Since many fruits and vegetables are consumed without cooking, any Salmonella on them isn’t reliably killed before eating. Outbreaks have been linked to leafy greens, sprouts, melons, and other produce, illustrating that the pathogen can reach produce at various points from farm to table. So, it’s true that produce can be a source of Salmonella infection.