Newsletter: UP Researchers Investigate E. coli Levels in Urban Farm Vegetables

[THIS IS A PRESS RELEASE]

By Eunice Jean C. Patron

Researchers gather samples of mustasa, or mustard greens (Brassica juncea), at New Greenland Farm in Bagong Silangan, Quezon City. (Photo credit: The Research Team)

A type of bacterium called Escherichia coli (E. coli), found in the feces of humans and animals, is often released into bodies of water such as streams. Although most E. coli strains are harmless, some can cause foodborne diseases such as gastroenteritis, typhoid fever, and dysentery. Feces are a major source of microbial contamination in fresh produce. With the rise of urban farming in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to monitor fresh produce from urban farms to recognize and address food safety issues immediately.