Scientists from the FDA published in the Journal of Food Protection. (Vol 88, issue 7, June 2025) “An Overview of Farm Investigation Findings Associated with Outbreaks of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Infections Linked to Leafy Greens: 2009–2021.” The authors emphasize that leafy greens are a reoccurring source of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) outbreaks. They summarize data from farm investigations following STEC outbreaks linked to leafy greens conducted by the FDA, CDC, and state and local partners from 2009 to 2021. Between 2009 and 2021, there were 49 STEC outbreaks associated with leafy greens; 37 of these were linked to a specific type of leafy green. Traceback investigations were conducted for 25, and farm investigations for 17. Seven outbreaks were traced back to a single farm, and 10 were traced back to multiple farms. Environmental samples collected per investigation increased over time, and farm investigations since 2018 included a more diverse collection of environmental sample types. The outbreak strain was identified in 6 of 17 investigations through genomic analysis, although sample and testing methods changed over time, thereby increasing the sensitivity for pathogen detection. Improved traceability in the supply chain can help identify individual farms for investigations and targeted product actions. Continued grower outreach, education, and adoption of regulations and best practices can help improve the safety of leafy greens. Research to address food safety gaps can help minimize the impact of future outbreaks. @ https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfp.2025.100542
