What is the most likely source of Norovirus contamination?

What is the most likely source of Norovirus contamination?

• A. Frozen fish
• B. Fresh vegetables from a salad bar
• C. Packaged snacks
• D. Canned goods

Answer: (B)

Fresh vegetables from a salad bar are a notable source of Norovirus contamination primarily due to their potential exposure to contaminated water or improper handling by food workers. Norovirus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through contaminated food, surfaces, or direct contact with an infected person. Salad bars, where multiple people serve themselves, increase the risk of cross-contamination, especially if hygiene practices are not strictly followed. Fresh produce can also come into contact with contaminated soil or water during the growing, harvesting, or distribution phases. This risk is particularly relevant for items that are consumed raw, such as those found in a salad, where cooking would not eliminate the pathogen. Therefore, among the given choices, fresh vegetables from a salad bar represent a significant concern for Norovirus transmission in food handling settings.

Fresh vegetables from a salad bar are a notable source of Norovirus contamination primarily due to their potential exposure to contaminated water or improper handling by food workers. Norovirus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through contaminated food, surfaces, or direct contact with an infected person. Salad bars, where multiple people serve themselves, increase the risk of cross-contamination, especially if hygiene practices are not strictly followed.

Fresh produce can also come into contact with contaminated soil or water during the growing, harvesting, or distribution phases. This risk is particularly relevant for items that are consumed raw, such as those found in a salad, where cooking would not eliminate the pathogen. Therefore, among the given choices, fresh vegetables from a salad bar represent a significant concern for Norovirus transmission in food handling settings.