Chapter 15 - Produce Contamination Issues in Mexico and Central America

Abstract

Mexico and Central America are important countries, exporting considerable volumes of fresh fruits and vegetables to different parts of the globe, especially the U.S. Several large foodborne outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce imported from these regions. Although contributing factors have not been determined in all cases, cross-contamination with fecal matter of both domestic and wild animals has been suggested. In addition, contact with contaminated water also has been identified as a source of contamination. Moreover, the use of untreated manure or sewage as fertilizer, lack of field sanitary toilet facilities, poorly or unsanitized transportation vehicles, and contamination by handlers are also suggested as potential contributing factors. These cases and the importance of the economic revenues in trading fresh fruits and vegetables are triggering the implementation and validation of Good Agricultural Practices, Good Manufacturing Practices, and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points in Mexico and Central America regions.