Nutrition Corner

April 2007

LETTUCE LEARN A LESSON

by Carol Simmer, RD/CD

     This title caught my eye shortly after the latest E.coli spinach scare last fall. I wonder if we did learn a lesson, become paranoid, or just ignore it all. Will you look at produce differently this year?

 

     Did you know that there are 225 unique strains of E.coli and the majority of them are NOT dangerous? Ecoli 0157:h7 is among the most dangerous strains to humans, and has made the most headlines in the last year even though the incidence of total food borne illness caused by E.coli 0157:h7 is very, very low.

 

     There are many regulations in place for produce growers written by five federal agencies plus state and local agencies! The FDA guide on Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) covers everything from agricultural water to sanitation of facilities and equipment. Perhaps the problem lies not with guidance, but with the word “voluntary” compliance to many regulations? Congress has not given the FDA the authority or resources to educate or enforce safety procedures. Our farmers must be doing something right or there would be more illness, but clearly education and enforceable legislation needs to change. The company that had the spinach problem has put many good safeguards in place to prevent future outbreaks, but others may only “volunteer” to do so.

 

     Fruits & Veggies – More Matters! is the new phrase that will be championed by the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Don’t be afraid to eat those fruits and veggies, whether they are fresh, frozen, or canned. All will add fiber to the diet  and canned and frozen products can have as much or more of phytonutrients and vitamins as fresh depending upon how  fresh produce is handled after picking, and time between picking and onto your table. Perhaps local produce is the safest and healthiest choice when possible?

 

 

     Wash  produce (except for mushrooms) under running water even though they are “twice washed”, shake or pat off extra water, wrap greens in a paper towel and put in plastic bag in refrigerator. Do this when you get home from the grocery and they will retain freshness and be ready to use quickly. Fruits & Veggies – more does matter!

 

 

Comments or questions? Email Carol at csimmer@wccoa.org