Escherichia coli, or E. coli, is a species of bacteria found naturally in the intestines of animals and humans. Some strains can cause illness and even death if they are consumed. Although E. coli lives in animals, it can end up almost anywhere. Raw vegetables can be cross-contaminated on the farm or even in your own home. To remove or destroy any trace of E. coli on raw vegetables, it is important to wash your hands before eating or preparing food and to thoroughly wash or cook all food before eating.
Sources
Many forms of E. coli found in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals are beneficial to your health and cause no symptoms. Some strains, however, produce toxins that can cause illness if they absorbed into your bloodstream or severely damage the lining of your intestine. The most toxic strain of E. coli, known as E. coli O157:H7, originates in the intestines of cows, goats, deer and sheep. Outbreaks of E. coli O157:H7 poisoning from raw vegetables have been linked to spinach, lettuce and sprouts.
Symptoms
Symptoms of E. coli infection from raw vegetables can vary from person to person and include abdominal cramps, bloody or nonbloody diarrhea and occasional nausea or vomiting. If there is a fever, it is usually low-grade. In severe cases, a condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome may develop. This syndrome is characterized by destruction of red blood cells and kidney failure and can be life-threatening. The onset of symptoms is usually anytime from one day to a few days after you eat contaminated food. Symptoms get worse as time goes by and tend to progress more quickly in young children and elderly adults.
Treatment
Call your doctor if you think you have been infected with E. coli from raw vegetables or any other source. Most cases clear up on their own within five to 10 days. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids. Neither antibiotics nor antidiarrheal medications are recommended. Hospitalization may be required if hemolytic uremic syndrome develops and blood transfusions or kidney dialysis become necessary.
Prevention
To prevent E. coli contamination from raw vegetables, thoroughly wash all produce before peeling, cutting or otherwise preparing to cook or eat. Always prepare raw vegetables on a clean surface, especially if you are using a counter or cutting board that was previously used to prepare raw meat or other animal products. Wash your hands after handling raw meat and before handling raw vegetables.
