In the last decade there appears to have been an increase in the numbers of outbreaks
of foodborne disease associated with fruit and vegetables (Doyle and Erickson, 2008).
Several factors may have influenced the notion of these apparent increases in numbers.
In outbreak situations there has been an increased awareness that fresh produce
could be the cause of disease. An increased consumption of fruits and vegetables
due the expanded import and export trade has led to an increase in choices available
to consumers. Due to improved technology, fresh produce can now be transported
over long distances within a short period of time, thus leading to import of products
from areas faraway from the consumption centers. Furthermore, the trendy habit of
demanding fresh and “natural” products may also be an important factor