Even though fresh produce causes approximately ten percent of all food borne illnesses, the Federal government has no safety requirements for such food products. Instead, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has set out voluntary guidelines for produce suppliers to follow. Not surprisingly, many retailers do not follow such guidelines. As a result, fresh produce causes almost as many food-poisoning outbreaks as beef.

Despite the voluntary nature of the FDA's guidelines, many supermarkets, including Albertson's, Safeway, and Publix, have begun to inspect produce. Other stores, such as Wal-Mart, A&P, and Kroger, are considering similar programs. Grocery stores claim that such inspections ensure product safety. Consumer advocates disagree and claim that mandatory government regulation is the only reliable way to ensure fresh produce safety.

Albertson's, Safeway, and Publix counter such charges, claiming that voluntary inspections are a step in the right direction. The stores' inspectors will follow the same guidelines established by the FDA.