The Center for Produce Safety-funded project aims to generate practical guidance for produce growers, including improved sampling approaches to determine whether groundwater is influenced by surface water, and immediately actionable recommendations for mitigating microbial contamination and biofilms in irrigation systems.
FAO and WHO recently published a report identifying and prioritizing chemical contaminants that pose a food safety risk due to their presence in sources of water used in agri-food systems.
A two-year study of Southeastern U.S. watersheds confirmed that surface water harbors complex, clinically relevant Salmonella populations that differ from food animal datasets—revealing critical gaps in understanding environmental Salmonella transmission and the need for robust One Health surveillance systems.
German Federal researchers have developed a rapid, onsite detection system for PFAS in water samples. Its cost-effectiveness and ease-of-use make it a potentially scalable solution for authorities and industry to monitor and remediate “forever chemical” contamination.
The French agency ANSES published the results of a two-year, national sampling and testing assignment for “forever chemicals” in drinking water, which was conducted to inform future monitoring strategies. Although most analyzed samples fell below regulatory limits for PFAS, TFA was found in 92 percent of samples.
A recent study investigating biofilms in water hoses used in a meat processing facility revealed widespread microbial colonization, reaffirming concerns about hoses as reservoirs for pathogens, and underscoring the need for routine monitoring and maintenance of water delivery systems.
Kurita America Inc. and Cyclopure are partnering to deliver an advanced and sustainable solution for removing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water, using a completely regenerable material.
In May 2025, EPA rolled back Biden-era drinking water limits for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) of concern. A new map visualizing EPA testing data shows that more than 30 million Americans are served by drinking water systems containing one of four PFAS for which the limits have been revoked.
After an updated risk assessment on fluoride exposure in the EU, focusing especially on developmental neurotoxicity in children, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) revised the tolerable upper intake levels (ULs) for fluoride. EFSA concluded there is no major health risk considering the new ULs and current EU drinking water limits for fluoride.
Reflecting on 20 years of research, scientists from the University of Pretoria and the Water Research Commission in South Africa are calling for better national water quality standards, as well as regular surveillance and testing of water sources and produce, to address contaminated irrigation water and improve produce safety.
