Canada’s Federal Health Department (Health Canada) has launched a new series of fact sheets on the safe handling of fresh produce to help consumers reduce the risk of foodborne illness, which are estimated to affect 11m-13m Canadians each year.
The fact sheets, which provide practical tips for consumers on how to choose, handle and store fruits and vegetables, focus on those types of fresh produce that are most often associated with foodborne illnesses in Canada, according to a Health Canada press release.
The agency claims fresh fruits and vegetables do not naturally contain microorganisms (i.e., bacteria, parasites or viruses) that can sicken people.
However, the department warns that fresh produce can become contaminated with harmful microorganisms while in the field or through improper handling, storage or transportation during or after harvest.
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