Lettuce produced locally safe for consumption

THE MINISTRY of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, through the Plant Quarantine Produce Inspection Unit says that there is no E.coli contaminant reported on lettuce of any type produced in Jamaica.

On November 22, the ministry announced a temporary suspension of the imported Romaine Lettuce to Jamaica owing to the detection of E. coli contaminant on lettuce produced in several US states.

The ban was established in order to protect local consumers and suppliers, including hotels and supermarkets.

The ministry has indicated that local lettuce growers have reported that they are unable to sell to the usual markets, to including supermarkets, hotels, and others due to the fears that local lettuce might also be contaminated.

“RADA (Rural Agricultural Development Authority) would like to assure the public that we have no reports of E. coli contamination on locally produced lettuce. RADA is knowledgeable about the conditions under which the lettuce is produced by farmers and can facilitate traceability from the field,” RADA stated.

“Assurance is also given that we have a sufficient supply of lettuce to meet the demand of the market to include the upcoming festive season.”

The ministry is appealing to all stakeholders, hotels, supermarkets, and general consumers to continue to purchase locally produced lettuce as it is safe for consumption.