Fruit Bites September 15-17 Wildfires

BL: Welcome back to another “Fruit Bites” brought to you by Valent U.S.A. With us as always is Valent’s Allison Walston. And this week Allison, we’re dealing with wildfires in the west and any impact on fruit?

AW: scientists have been evaluating food safety from wildfire impacted areas after the 2017 wildfires in fruit regions, with wine grapes being the most impacted.

BL: And, Oregon State University has an online food safety and wildfire resource with links for the food industry, worker health and consumer safety.

AW: Food safety studies show that washing produce mitigates most of the impact of wildfire contamination. If it still looks questionable, follow the slogan “if in doubt, throw it out”.

BL: And, for worker safety, COVID-19 mask and hand washing requirements are even more important as they protect from smoke inhalation and reducing fire containments on people and fruit.

AW: Two of my colleagues at the Valent Group Companies lost their home last week to a wildfire. Please reach out to friends and family. For those near a fire, have a plan and ask for assistance. Please be safe out there.

BL: Well, thanks Allison. Join us again next time for Fruit Bites, brought to you by Valent. Until then, I’m Bob Larson.

https://agsci.oregonstate.edu/wrcefs/article/food-safety-and-wildfires

http://cesonoma.ucanr.edu/files/285944.pdf