How can tomatoes become contaminated with Salmonella?
Salmonella in the environment can contaminate tomatoes. Salmonella can be found in the feces of many animals (e.g., food animals, reptiles, amphibians, birds) and in some habitats, such as ponds and drainage ditches. Although the exact mechanism by which tomatoes become contaminated is not known, experimental evidence suggests certain possibilities. In experimental studies, the insides of whole tomatoes can be contaminated in at least two ways: (1) if tomatoes are immersed in water that is colder than the tomato, water can enter through the stem scar; if the water is contaminated, Salmonella can be carried in; (2) if contaminated water touches the stem or flower of a tomato plant, the growing tomato can be contaminated. Contamination on the tomato surface also can be transferred to the inside when it is cut. Food handlers infected with Salmonella who have not washed their hands may also contaminate tomatoes during preparation. If a cut tomato that is contaminated with Salmonella is kep
