EFSA assesses the risk from Salmonella and norovirus in

Rainfall, the use of contaminated water for irrigation or for applying pesticides, and contaminated equipment are among the factors that cause contamination of berries with Salmonella and norovirus. These are some of the findings of a scientific opinion on risk factors that contribute to the contamination of fresh or frozen berries such as strawberries, raspberries or blueberries at different stages of the food chain. EFSA has recommended that producers use good agricultural, hygiene and manufacturing practices to reduce contamination. Because of a lack of relevant information, EFSA could not assess the suitability of microbiological criteria at primary production or during processing of berries.

• Scientific Opinion on the risk posed by pathogens in food of non-animal origin. Part 2 (Salmonella and Norovirus in berries)