Guidelines for Consuming Late Season Produce Exposed to Floodwater

Heavy rains and the flowing waters that result can contaminate plants growing in the garden and create a food safety hazard. As floodwater moves into your garden, it can carry raw sewage overflow, farm and domestic animal waste, river or pond water, and agricultural run-off, all of which can be sources of human pathogens such as norovirus, Salmonella, and pathogenic E. coli. Gardeners and other people who mishandle and/or consume fresh produce exposed to floodwater are at risk of gastrointestinal illnesses, with accompanying symptoms such as vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhea. For more information visit: https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/safepreserving/2018/08/30/guidelines-for-consuming-late-season-produce-exposed-to-floodwater/.