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pseudonomas aeruginosa
- Question
- On which fruits and vegetables can Pseudomonas be found?
- Answer
- I assume you want to know whether CF patients have a higher risk to acquire an infection with Pseudomonas (aeruginosa) by eating fruit and vegetables.
I will try to answer your question step by step.
It is important to know that “Pseudomonas” is a general term for a large group of bacteria that have a similar appearance and characteristics. The “Pseudomonas” family consists of a large number of bacteria not all of which are harmful to humans. It is specifically the Pseudomonas aeruginosa that is responsible for lung infection in persons with CF. This bacterium is found everywhere in the environment, but most of all in moist places, especially in stagnant water, but also in the soil. Completely avoiding places where those bacteria are found is not possible. Therefore people with CF are asked to take into account certain precautions. You can read more about this in the section: Pseudomonas prevention.
As to fruits and vegetables. Vegetables growing low to the ground, such as leek, onion and others are regularly contaminated with Pseudomonas. This can lead to a failed harvest, because the Pseudomonas bacteria affect the crop. Most of the time this is caused by the Pseudomonas syringae, not by the Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The Pseudomonas syringae belongs to a different group of the family and is not harmful to humans. Therefore be critical when you read articles about “Pseudomonas”. Do not conclude that eating fruits and vegetables can be harmful or even dangerous. A balanced diet that contains sufficient vitamins and fibers is important for everyone's health, also for people with CF. Of course it is always advisable to wash fruit and vegetables before eating. Eating washed fruit and vegetables does not increase the risk of lung infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Washing your hands after the toilet and before eating is another important precaution.
I hope this answer addresses your concern.
Kind regards
E De Wachter
- 05.06.2013
