Infections Associated With Eating Seed Sprouts

[Guest guest]

Hi Gang! Geoff Crenshaw here.

If you eat sprouts (or other raw veggies) you should probably read this

article in full. You'll need a MedScape password to access it (FREE).

Below the link is the abstract.

http://www.medscape.com/govmt/CDC/EID/1999/v05.n05/e0505.03.taor/e0505.0

3.taor-01.html

Abstract

Recent outbreaks of Salmonella and Escherichia coli O157:H7 infections

associated with raw seed sprouts have occurred in several countries.

Subjective evaluations indicate that pathogens can exceed 107 per gram

of sprouts produced from inoculated seeds during sprout production

without adversely affecting appearance. Treating seeds and sprouts with

chlorinated water or other disinfectants fails to eliminate the

pathogens. A comprehensive approach based on good manufacturing

practices and principles of hazard analysis and critical control points

can reduce the risk of sprout-associated disease. Until effective

measures to prevent sprout-associated illness are identified, persons

who wish to reduce their risk of foodborne illness from raw sprouts are

advised not to eat them; in particular, persons at high risk for severe

complications of infections with Salmonella or E. coli O157:H7, such as

the elderly, children, and those with compromised immune systems, should

not eat raw sprouts. [Emerging Infectious Diseases 5(5), 1999. Centers

for Disease Control]

Regards,

Geoff Crenshaw, ACC -----------------------

Captain Cook's Cruise Center ** Usual Disclaimers **

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