Atlanta residents turn to local growers amid Cyclospora outbreak | How to shop

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — A deadly Cyclospora parasite outbreak linked to recalled Mexican iceberg lettuce has led some Atlanta shoppers to opt for farmers markets and locally sourced food.

The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) has traced the contaminated produce to Taylor Farms in central Mexico. The company has voluntarily recalled products from shelves, but cases – now more than 11,000 across 20 states, including Georgia – continue to grow.

The outbreak’s spread is increasingly changing consumer habits as Georgia shoppers look for more locally sourced lettuce and other foods.

“So much is going on with the vegetables and the fruit and every day you hear so much in the news,” said Gloria Webb.

Webb regularly shops at the Grant Park Farmers’ Market.

Although officials said the tainted produce is off store shelves, Webb isn’t risking it.

“I’m vegan and gluten-free, so it’s very important I know where my vegetables and fruits are coming from,” Webb said.

Mariah Lopez, the Grant Park Farmers’ Market manager, said more people are choosing to shop there instead of solely relying on grocery stores.

“They found local food has a shorter supply chain so there’s less risk of diseases,” Lopez said.

She said this health scare is really showing the benefits of buying local and brings a well-needed boost in business to area farmers.

“So that money instead of going to Kroger or a corporation, they’re staying in the local economy,” Lopez said.

Shopping local: What to look for

When shopping for locally grown food, look for freshness, growing transparency and strict food safety handling.

Even at open-air farmers markets or farm stands, vendors must maintain hygienic safety practices to prevent cross-contamination and food-borne illnesses.

Talk to the vendor: An advantage of local shopping is that you can talk directly to the vendor. Ask them, “Was this harvested recently?” Or “Did you grow everything at this stand?” Most local farmers will be glad to tell you if any item was picked that day or that week.

Temperature management: Highly perishable items – like pre-cut greens, berries, dairy and meats – must be kept chilled on ice or in coolers. Avoid buying meats or cheeses sitting out in the temperatures.

Sanitation and separation: Take a close look at how vendors operate. They should use clean tongs or fresh gloves when handling ready-to-eat items. Raw meats must be stored entirely separate from raw produce to prevent dripping.

RELATED COVERAGE:

Iceberg lettuce outbreak linked to more states

FDA inspects facility linked to ‘diarrhea lettuce’ cyclosporiasis outbreak

‘Explosive diarrhea’ parasite cases on the rise in Georgia, CDC says