Role of Bacterial Surface Appendages in Attachment and Internalization of Escherichia coli O157:H7 on Organic Leafy Greens

The objective of this cooperative research project is to elucidate mechanisms by which foodborne pathogens such as Escherichia coli O157:H7 may attach to and internalize in organic leafy greens and attach to equipment surfaces commonly used for harvesting and to evaluate the efficacy of alternative pre- and post-harvest interventions that can improve shelf-life and control pathogenic microbial growth and survival on organic leafy greens.