Doctor explains best way to wash produce amid cyclosporiasis concerns

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- With nearly 7,000 confirmed and suspected cases of cyclosporiasis reported nationwide, preliminary findings are pointing to produce and salad greens as a potential source of the illnesses.

Some consumers may be avoiding summer produce because of the outbreak, but Dr. Douglas Nguyen, a gastroenterologist with Providence Mission Hospital, said that's not necessary.

"I think fiber is so good and so healthy in so many different ways," Nguyen said.

Cyclospora, the parasite that causes cyclosporiasis, can be difficult to remove from fresh produce. It gets everywhere and is resistant to chemicals. Once it sticks to leaves and berries, the only way to remove it is to scrub and rinse it out.

"Just getting rid of the organism, and of course using fresh water every time," Nguyen said.

With multiple washes, a salad spinner can help speed up the process.

"Getting rid of the outside layers might be something that you could also consider as well," Nguyen said.

Can produce sprays and wipes help? Some claim to remove the waxy build up organisms cling to, but Nguyen says you can do the same with repeated rinsing and rubbing.

"As long as you can reduce the amount of organism that you're introducing in the body, so just good food handling," Nguyen said.

Even prepackaged greens labeled as thoroughly washed or ready to eat can be vulnerable because they may contain leaves from multiple sources, increasing the possibility of cross-contamination.

"A lot of the contamination comes from the manufacturing process," Nguyen said.

Cyclosporiasis can cause bloating, nausea, cramping and diarrhea. Nguyen said people should seek medical care if symptoms persist for more than a couple of days. Antibiotics are available.

While California isn't experiencing an outbreak, many other organisms can cause food-borne illness, so practice good hygiene and follow food safety guidelines.