New findings from a five-year federal study are offering fresh insights into how foodborne pathogens move through California’s Central Coast growing region and what it means for produce safety.
On March 5, 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) shared initial findings from its California Longitudinal Study (CALS), launched in 2020, to better understand the environmental factors that influence the introduction, persistence and spread of foodborne pathogens in California’s Central Coast agricultural region.
What the Study Found
Conducted in collaboration with the Western Center for Food Safety at the University of California, Davis; the California Department of Food and Agriculture; and regional stakeholders, the study provides the following insights:
- Longitudinal data on the trends in pathogen presence in the region over time
- Identification of potential sources of STEC, including wildlife and livestock on adjacent or nearby land
- Analysis of how environmental conditions influence pathogen persistence and movement
- Greater understanding of pathogen diversity within the region
What Can Growers Expect
The FDA is now engaging stakeholders to review the data, discuss findings, and assist with the development or revision of risk management practices as needed.
In response to the study’s release, Western Growers is taking an active role through the California Agricultural Neighbors (CAN) initiative. Western Growers is leading CAN Working Group #5: Scientific Engagement & Collaboration to translate the CALS findings, evaluate existing best practices, develop guidance and strengthen coordinated efforts to reduce risk across the agricultural ecosystem. Click here to learn and join this group.
Western Growers will continue to work with other fresh produce industry associations, the entities engaged in this study, and other stakeholders to support efforts that strengthen produce safety and promote continuous improvement.
For additional information regarding the study, visit the FDA’s California Longitudinal Study webpage. To see the FDA’s Constituent Update, click here.
To read an update posted by the CDFA, click here.
For any questions related to the study findings and the work of the CAN working group #5 reach out to the WG Science team.