Experts say: The summer Cyclospora outbreak linked to lettuce may be slowing, but food-safety concerns remain. The FDA identified iceberg lettuce distributed by Taylor Farms and grown in Mexico as a possible source of illnesses in a multistate Cyclospora investigation. Even so, contaminated produce can still reach grocery stores, which means store-bought lettuce is not always risk-free.
The Food and Drug Administration continues to monitor foodborne illness outbreaks, including investigations involving Cyclospora and other foodborne pathogens. Recent reports suggest that some Cyclospora cases may be associated with fresh herbs such as parsley and cilantro. Cyclospora is a parasite that can cause prolonged diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue, and loss of appetite.
For nearly two years, I have grown organic salad greens, herbs, and vegetables—including beans and zucchini—in a Lettuce Grow Farmstand in my living room. This indoor hydroponic garden produces enough fresh food to help feed a family of three while reducing our reliance on grocery-store produce. Here is what our current indoor garden looks like.
Photo: Kat Merck
Photo: Kat Merck
A full-size indoor hydroponic system such as the Lettuce Grow Farmstand requires an upfront investment, but it can provide a steady supply of leafy greens and herbs over time. The built-in water pump and LED grow lights use relatively little electricity in everyday use. Each Farmstand also includes nutrients to help support the first seedlings and several growing cycles.
Growing lettuce indoors does not eliminate every food-safety risk. Gardeners should wash their hands before handling plants, clean growing equipment regularly, use safe water, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for nutrients and maintenance. Still, an indoor garden can make it easier to control how fresh greens are grown, harvested, and prepared.
Lettuce Grow Farmstand
Grow lettuce, herbs, and other fresh greens indoors with a space-saving hydroponic garden system.
- Modern indoor design
- Simple routine maintenance
- Roots grow inside the central reservoir for easier cleaning
Source: www.wired.com