The Safety of Romaine Lettuce: A Salad Dilemma

The safety of romaine lettuce has been a concern due to past E. coli outbreaks, but the CDC states that millions of servings are consumed safely every day. To minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses, it is recommended to wash romaine lettuce (and all produce) thoroughly before consuming. Washing hands and surfaces, removing bruised leaves, and rinsing under running water are simple steps to prevent the spread of germs. Bagged romaine lettuce labeled as "ready to eat" or "triple washed" does not require additional washing. Romaine lettuce offers various health benefits and can be enjoyed safely when proper washing practices are followed.