The first component of this project considered microbial contaminants. Listeria monocytogenous . Viruses have also been known to contaminate vegetables and cause illness from these sources. Shigella spp., and viruses such as Hepatitis A. . Some guidelines already exist and these will be examined for use in our new recommendations.
Examples are microbial criteria for water including irrigation, reclaimed and potable water.
The major project outcome will be the establishment of criteria for the clean, safe production of vegetables, with practical and achievable limits. This project will give the vegetable industry an opportunity to set appropriate acceptable limits based on scientific investigations specific for horticulture. The project is funded by Agriculture Victoria, HRDC and the vegetable industry, and a finalised report is expected to be available by 2001. Today's markets for vegetables and other horticultural produce are extremely sensitive to issues relating to pesticides, in particular to pesticide residues and misuse. It is essential that the consumer is protected and is seen to be protected by adequate safeguards in regulations governing the use of agrochemicals.