NC farmers say food safety remains top priority amid parasite outbreak

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- More than 300 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported across North Carolina, with Wake County recording the highest number of infections, according to state health officials.

As concerns about the outbreak grow, farmers at the Durham Farmers Market say food safety has long been a priority on their farms.

"Food safety is our main concern," said Martha Mobley, owner of Meadow Lane Farm in Louisburg.

Mobley, who has sold produce at the Durham Farmers Market for 20 years, said her farm follows strict practices designed to prevent contamination from the field to the market. Workers receive sanitation training and have easy access to hand-washing facilities.

"Our workers and myself, all of us are trained on hand sanitation," Mobley said. "We have restrooms close by the fields. They can go wash their hands."

State health officials say 13 people in North Carolina have been hospitalized during the outbreak. Most reported cases have been linked to parsley, cilantro and lettuce.

Despite the increase in reported illnesses, vendors said customer traffic at local farmers markets has remained steady.

Bernard Obie, a farmer from Roxboro, said consumers should continue to feel confident buying locally grown produce.

"Local is best. It is fresher," Obie said.

Much of the produce sold at his stand is harvested the day before it reaches customers, he said.

"It still looks strong and wholesome," Obie said. "Nothing has been put on it to disguise what it is. They can eat it with confidence. They can feed it to their families, too."

Vendors also stressed the importance of proper food handling at home.

"Wash your produce," said Stephanie Markunas of Lyons Farm. "It's the standard practice here."

Health officials continue to urge consumers to thoroughly wash fresh fruits and vegetables before eating them, regardless of where they were purchased.

MORE: Iceberg lettuce recalled in 27 states due to potential cyclospora contamination