Soil, water and plants

Many microorganisms present in soil and water may contaminate foods. Microorganisms also grow on plants and can contaminate food if care is not taken to remove them by washing or inactivate them by cooking. Soil is a particularly rich source of Clostridium bacteria. Water may be contaminated by faeces. Plants may also be contaminated by faeces if untreated sewage has been used as a fertiliser.