Contaminated Water
Water from ponds and streams should not be used for post-harvest cooling, fluming, and
washing. Water from these sources is often contaminated by runoff from fields and
packing houses and may therefore contain large concentrations of post-harvest pathogens.
Using pond or stream water for irrigation can also contaminate produce in the field.
Muddy water or water taken from the bottom of the pond is especially likely to be
contaminated. Always use potable water from a well or other reliable supply.