Microbial ecology of foodborne pathogens associated with produce.

The recent recognition of fresh fruits and vegetables as major vehicles of foodborne illness has led to increased research on mechanisms by which enteric pathogens contaminate and persist on and in this non-host environment. Interactions between foodborne pathogens and plants as well among the naturally occurring microbial communities contribute to endophytic and epiphytic colonization. Scientific findings are just beginning to elucidate the mechanisms that contribute to colonization of produce. This review addresses current knowledge as well as future research needed to increase our understanding of the microbial ecology of enteric pathogens on fruits and vegetables.