How did this serving of E-Coli reach your family? The supply chain from field to the supermarket is a long one, with many potential points along the way for contamination to occur. Where did the lettuce pick up E-Coli 0145, a pathogen found primarily in cattle and wildlife feces? High concentration of cattle and manure produces a fecal, muddy mix in which E. coli bacteria can thrive. The role of wildlife as a source of foodborne microbial contamination along the farm-to-fork continuum is a long-standing concern among public health and food safety agencies. It is easy to imagine the possibility of birds playing a role in contamination in a lettuce fields. THERE ARE A NUMBER OF WAYS GREENS COULD BECOME CONTAMINATED. Consumers have grown to love convenience salads and fruits, from tubs of pre-washed baby spinach, bags of chopped romaine lettuce, packaged raw vegetables and containers of prepared fruit salad. Vegetable row crops- lettuces plus broccoli, asparagus, celery and some other vegetables account for 42% of E. coli infections. Food safety experts say convenience greens and fruits- those handy containers of pre-chopped and pre-washed salads, vegetables and fruits- carry an extra risk because they come in contact with more people, contaminated water and machinery before they arrive on your plate. These pre-packaged greens, vegetables and fruits have risks. There’s no “kill step” that destroys pathogens for foods eaten raw. Produce is not grown in sterile environments. SYMPTOMS START 12 – 72 HOURS AFTER EATING CONTAMINATED FOODS. If you are experiencing bloody diarrhea, severe vomiting, or if the diarrhea lasts longer than 3 days, contact your doctor immediately. If you suspect you’ve contracted some form of food poisoning staying hydrated is one of the most important ways to avoid complications.