Organic Food Shopping in Phoenix

Recent outbreaks of E. coli (Escherichia coli O157:H7) found in spinach and lettuce are encouraging more consumers to turn to organic produce to minimize the risk. It is no wonder that organic food products are becoming more popular with the scary spread of the disease. Certain strains of E. coli such as are toxigenic and cause food poisoning. This particular strain is believed to be associated with the recent E. coli outbreak linked to fresh spinach. The illness can even be fatal, particularly to young children, the elderly or the immuno-compromised. E. coli can harbor enterotoxins which allow entry of the toxin into host intestinal cells, or prevent cells from absorbing water, causing diarrhea.

So, what is the best way to protect yourself and your family from contracting the E. coli virus? Here are a few suggestions:

* Stay away from mass-shipped produce and relying on smaller farms
* Cook your food to 160 degrees or higher, which will kill any bacteria
* Immediate refrigeration of produce is recommended by the FDA
* Thoroughly cook meat
* Avoid unpasteurized milk
* Clean produce well
* Wash your hands before preparing food items

For those seeking organic food vendors in Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun, there are many options available.

1)Local farmer’s markets

Chandler, Gilbert, downtown Phoenix and Mesa all hold weekly gatherings for local farmers and craftsmen to sell their products. Although it takes a bit of extra time, I go every Friday morning to the Mesa farmer’s market on Center Street. Windmill Farms is the largest vendor and quite often you must wend your way through hordes of people to see their wares and then wait in line to pay. It is well worth the wait, however. Windmill Farms features fresh herbs, seasonal fruits and a good selection of the basics. This is the only place I’ve been able to find fresh green tomatoes and they are fantastic! There is also a larger market on Saturday in downtown Mesa at the corner of Main Street and McDonald.