Scientists probing E. coli in urban farm produce

SCIENTISTS from the University of the Philippines-Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS), supported by the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR), are investigating the levels of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in vegetables grown in urban areas, which could help those engaged in urban agriculture improve their produce.

This, as 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.