The source of any water that comes in direct contact with the edible portion of the crop must be tested for quantified generic E. coil. The FSMA proposed produce safety rule states that if the source is a surface water source, such as a river, pond, or stream, it must be tested once per week throughout its use. If the source is a well, it must be tested at the beginning of the growing season and every three months thereafter during the growing season. If the source is a municipal water source, a copy of the municipality tests or certification of the quality is acceptable as verification of water quality.

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