What caused the 2006 spinach E. coli outbreak?

The 2006 spinach E. coli outbreak was caused by contamination from soil or water that infected the greens.

Can I wash E. coli off spinach?

Washing spinach may not fully remove E. coli, as the bacteria can be absorbed by the plant. Cooking is the most effective method.

What are the dangers of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC)?

STEC strains can cause severe illness, including bleeding, vascular system harm, and kidney damage.

Home / Health / Spinach Recall: How Safe Are Your Greens?

Spinach Recall: How Safe Are Your Greens?

7 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A 2006 E. coli outbreak from spinach infected 204 people across 26 states.
Contaminated soil or water can transfer E. coli to fruits and vegetables.
Washing greens may not remove E. coli; cooking to 160°F is required.

Spinach Recall: How Safe Are Your Greens?

Food recalls are an ongoing concern, with regulatory bodies like the FDA working to intercept contaminants. However, outbreaks can still occur, such as the severe E. coli contamination incident involving spinach in 2006. This outbreak impacted 26 states, leading to over 200 infections and several fatalities, underscoring the vulnerability of seemingly benign produce.

The contamination of spinach with E. coli, specifically the Shiga toxin-producing strain O157:H7, typically originates from contaminated soil or water. While not all E. coli strains are dangerous, STEC can cause severe illness, including kidney damage. This incident served as a stark reminder of the risks associated with fresh produce.

To mitigate risks, consumers are advised to stay informed about recalls and discard any affected items. Unfortunately, washing greens cannot fully eliminate E. coli due to its absorption from the soil. Cooking to an internal temperature of 160°F is necessary to kill the bacteria, presenting a challenge for raw consumption.