Do fruits and vegetables grown in contaminated soil pose a health risk?
Per the CDC, eating fruits and vegetables grown in contaminated soil rarely provides enough intake to pose a health risk. Studies have found more pollution in leafy vegetables and root crops (carrots, potatoes, lettuce and greens), than fruiting plant produce (fruit trees, tomatoes, and peas and beans). It is best to wash hands and all vegetables thoroughly before eating and peel root crops, such as potatoes and carrots. As added precaution, residents can grow vegetables or other edible plants in containers or raised-bed gardens.
