Most people realize that thoroughly washing produce before eating is essential. Now, it seems that evidence is growing that fresh produce is prone to carrying the Cryptosporidium parasite. This has been observed in spinach, where parvum oocytes were found to adhere strongly to the plants, even after thorough washing. This raises questions about the potential hazards of fresh produce being contaminated with Cryptosporidium and other bacteria. This would probably be due to fruits and vegetables coming in contact with contaminated water, which is where Cryptosporidium usually originates. It only takes about 9 or 10 oocytes to infect a healthy person.
It seems that leafy vegetables like spinach are at higher Cryptosporidium risks, because their leaves protect the parasites. Water used to irrigate crops may contain Cryptosporidium which is how produce becomes tainted. In fact, it has been estimated that about 36% of water used to irrigate crops in Central America and the United States contains these pathogens.
Foodborne outbreaks of Cryptosporidium may be caused by food handlers in restaurants and other foodservice facilities. Individuals who are infected may not wash their hands thoroughly after visiting the toilet or handling tainted foods. This means that other foods can become contaminated as well – the foods you are served may cause you to become ill.
Cryptosporidium usually produces gastrointestinal Cryptosporidium symptoms including nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal cramps and watery diarrhea. However, some individuals who become infected may experience no symptoms whatsoever. The infection is usually mild, but can be dangerous in certain individuals. Individuals at high risk of complications may develop hepatitis, pancreatitis, cholangitis, cholecystitis or malnutrition and severe dehydration. Those most at risk of danger from the infection are people who have had a transplant or otherwise weakened immune system.
If you develop symptoms of Cryptosporidium, contact your doctor at once to determine whether you need treatment. If you have become ill after eating at restaurants or other public places and believe that improper food handling took place, contact a New York food poisoning attorney. You may be eligible for compensation for any expenses associated with your illness.
