CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Concerns about Cyclospora contamination have raised new questions about whether washing fresh fruits and vegetables is enough to protect consumers from the parasite.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can cause an intestinal illness known as cyclosporiasis. According to food safety guidance highlighted in the report, thoroughly rinsing produce under clean running water can help remove dirt and reduce some contaminants, but washing does not guarantee that Cyclospora will be completely removed.
Consumers should still wash fresh produce before eating, cutting or preparing it, while avoiding soap, bleach and household cleaning products on food. Scrubbing firm produce with a clean produce brush and keeping fruits and vegetables separate from raw meat can also help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
When a product is specifically identified in a food safety recall or outbreak notice, however, simply washing it may not make it safe to eat. Consumers should follow official instructions and discard or return affected products when advised.
Health officials say people infected with Cyclospora can experience symptoms including prolonged diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue and loss of appetite. Anyone experiencing persistent or severe symptoms should contact a healthcare professional.
The latest concerns serve as an important reminder for consumers to practice safe food handling while also staying informed about current recalls and outbreak investigations involving fresh produce.
Read the original WCNC VERIFY report
(Photo by: Natasha Breen/REDA/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
No comments