Protect Yourself: The Surging Threat of Foodborne Pathogens in the US and the Crucial Importance of Washing All Produce

Washing your fruits and vegetables before dinner isn’t just about making them look good. It’s crucial for your health. With foodborne illnesses on the rise, taking a few minutes to rinse your produce can help prevent serious stomach problems.

The increase in international food trade and stronger foodborne pathogens, like salmonella, make it more important than ever to pay attention to food safety at home. The CDC reports that about 48 million Americans—roughly one in six—get sick from foodborne illness each year, leading to 3,000 deaths and 128,000 hospitalizations.

Recent outbreaks have highlighted this risk. For instance, onions linked to a recent E. coli outbreak at McDonald’s made at least 75 people sick and were connected to one death. In another incident, fresh cucumbers were recalled due to salmonella worries, affecting over 60 cases across 26 states. Even mushrooms have been recalled due to Listeria concerns.

Interestingly, a large chunk of food-related illnesses comes from salad bars. Lettuce and bean sprouts are frequent culprits. To keep your meals safe, making simple changes in how you prepare your fruits and vegetables is key.

Here are some easy tips for washing your produce:

• Shop smart: Avoid bruised or moldy produce. Even tiny nicks can let germs inside.
• Leafy greens: Wash each leaf under running water—this includes packaged greens.
• Berries and grapes: Rinse under running water. Don’t skip this step!
• Soft fruits: Wash apples and avocados thoroughly before cutting. This prevents bacteria from transferring from the skin to the flesh.
• Scrub hard produce: Use a brush for melons and oranges to remove dirt.

And remember, if you’re serving food to kids, older adults, or anyone with a weak immune system, cooking your fruits and vegetables to an internal temperature of 160°F can eliminate harmful bacteria.

If you grow your own produce, check out the “Food Safety Begins On The Farm” pamphlet from Cornell Good Agricultural Practices to ensure you’re following best practices from the ground up.

Taking a little time to wash your fruits and veggies not only keeps your meals appealing but also protects your health. Stay safe and enjoy your fresh produce!

Check out this related article: From Food Cart to Famed Sandwich Shop: Discover Fairport’s Exciting Culinary Transformation!