New Mexico Chile Task Force

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Key Background Information

Between 1970 – 1997, the U.S. per capita consumption of fruits and vegetables increased 24% (577 lbs to 718 lbs per year)!

Food borne Illnesses

As produce consumption has increased, scientists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, noticed some important trend. From 1973 through 1998, there was a significant increase in the number of food borne disease outbreaks associated with fresh produce.

A summary of the food borne outbreaks from 1987 to present shows:

The number of outbreaks associated with fresh produce steadily increased.
The number of people affected more than doubled.
A variety of fruits and vegetables were involved.
Three–quarters (75.3%) of the outbreaks were related to domestically grown produce.
Most of the outbreaks were caused by bacteria, especially Salmonella species and E. coli O157:H7.

Consumer Concerns

In response to consumer concerns, many retailers have recently announced programs requiring growers to have independent third-party inspections of farms to certify that fruits and vegetables are being grown, harvested, and packaged using good agricultural and management practices. These programs are developing rapidly and many growing and packing operations are already being inspected by companies, organizations, and agencies approved by retailers.

At least two large grocery chains—Safeway and Albertsons—require third-party inspections and certification for produce. Safeway requires it on what they have dubbed “high–risk” items, including strawberries and lettuce. Albertsons requires it for all produce.

Safeway – Expansion of Produce buying Safety Program letter
Albertsons – Clarification of Expectations letter (pdf file)