Rep. Kellie Deeter Encourages Ohioans to Support Local Produce While Following Food Safety Guidance
State Representative Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk) is encouraging Ohio families to continue purchasing fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, noting that Ohio-grown produce has not been identified as the source of the recent Cyclospora outbreak under investigation by federal health officials. Current investigations have focused on specific products and supply chains, including imported iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, not produce grown by Ohio farmers.
“Our local farmers are among the hardest-working people in Ohio, and they take tremendous pride in producing safe, high-quality food for our families,” said Rep. Deeter. “While foodborne illness outbreaks understandably create concern, it’s important that consumers have accurate information. At this time, Ohio-grown fruits and vegetables have not been implicated in this outbreak.”
Representative Deeter said she has heard from growers throughout her district who are experiencing declining sales because of widespread concern over recent national news coverage.
“These farms employ hundreds of Ohioans and are vital to our rural economy,” Deeter said. “When consumers avoid all fresh produce out of fear, local farm families and workers pay the price even though they have no connection to the outbreak.”
Rep. Deeter encourages Ohioans to continue enjoying fresh fruits and vegetables while following common-sense food safety practices recommended by public health officials, including:
- Wash fresh produce thoroughly under running water before eating or preparing it.
- Wash hands before handling food.
- Follow any FDA or CDC recall notices and avoid only those products specifically identified in recalls or outbreak investigations.
- When possible, support Ohio farmers by purchasing locally grown produce from farm markets, roadside stands, and grocery stores featuring Ohio-grown products
“I also encourage the FDA and Ohio Department of Agriculture and Farm Bureau to continue communicating clearly with consumers about the safety and quality of Ohio-grown produce,” Deeter added. “Ohio agriculture has earned the public’s trust, and we should do everything we
can to ensure consumers understand that our local growers have not been linked to this
outbreak.”
For the latest food safety information and any active recalls, consumers should consult the FDA
and CDC.