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Published
2026-01-30
Section
Food Science and Technology
How to Cite
Microbial and Chemical Contamination of Irrigation Water in Horticultural Production: Implications for Food Safety and Consumer Health - A Systematic Review
Xaviera Ulla Tawiah
Kumasi Technical University
Keywords: Irrigation water, Horticulture production, Microbial contamination, Food safety, Consumer health
Abstract
Irrigation water is a major pathway for microbial and chemical contamination of horticultural
produce, posing significant risks to food safety and consumer health. This systematic review
synthesized evidence published between 2013 and 2023 on irrigation water quality and associated
health risks in horticultural production systems. Following PRISMA guidelines, 237 records were
identified from 4 databases. After screening and eligibility assessment, 80 peer-reviewed studies
were included. Microbial contamination of irrigation water was widespread, with total and faecal
coliforms and Escherichia coli concentrations commonly ranging from 1.9 to 8.0 log CFU/100 mL.
Generic E. coli prevalence reached 84.8% in some production systems. Pathogenic bacteria including
Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Listeria monocytogenes, and Campylobacter were detected in up to
64% of wastewater samples. Viral pathogens, including norovirus and rotavirus, were detected in
20.8–37.5% of irrigation water samples and up to 60.4% of irrigated leafy vegetables. Heavy metals
such as cadmium, lead, and chromium often exceeded WHO/FAO permissible limits, with cadmium
concentrations surpassing standards by up to 1.82-fold. Quantitative microbial risk assessments
estimated infection risks exceeding the WHO health target of 10⁻⁶ DALYs in multiple exposure
scenarios. These findings highlight irrigation water as a critical control point for reducing produce-
associated health risks.
Author Biography
Xaviera Ulla Tawiah, Kumasi Technical University
Dept. of Food Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology,
Dept. of Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kumasi Technical University, Kumasi,
