Scientists Identify Key Factors Behind E. Coli Outbreaks in Romaine Lettuce

E. coli O157:H7 is one of the leading causes of severe foodborne illness, and romaine lettuce has repeatedly been implicated in widespread outbreaks of this pathogen

A Cornell University study that traced contamination from field to table found that irrigation practices are the dominant factor in whether lettuce becomes a carrier of E. coli

Lettuce irrigated with untreated surface water sprayed overhead carried the greatest contamination risk, while switching to furrow or drip irrigation reduced illness by over 96%

The study showed that consumer washing only lowered risk by 28%, reinforcing that on-farm prevention through safer irrigation is essential to protect lettuce before harvest

Although prevention starts with better farm practices, there are still strategies to lower your risk at home, including staying updated on recalls, choosing fresher local produce, washing and storing them properly, and even growing your own food