07/16/2026
Youāve probably seen the recent headlines about a foodborne illness linked to fresh produce. Hereās my take.
This isnāt a reason to stop eating fruits and vegetables. Itās a reminder to be a little more mindful about where our food comes from and how we handle it.
The longer and more complex our food system becomes, the more opportunities there are for something to go wrong. Thatās one of the reasons I choose local whenever I can. Smaller farms, shorter supply chains, and the ability to know your farmer are things I value. It doesnāt eliminate risk, but it does create more connection, transparency, and appreciation for the people growing our food.
If the grocery store is your main source of produce, thatās okay too. A few simple habits can help:
ā¢ Wash all fruits and vegetables under cool running water before eating or preparing them.
ā¢ Choose whole produce over pre cut options when possible.
ā¢ Cook vegetables when it makes sense, especially if youāre already planning to.
ā¢ Stay aware of produce recalls and food safety alerts.
The goal isnāt fear. Itās awareness.
Keep eating your veggies, and if you have the chance this weekend, hit up your local farmers market. You might just discover a new favorite farmer, vegetable, or conversation. š§
