Water quality

Water Used for Irrigation or for Application of Fertilizers, Pesticides, and Growth Regulators should be of Acceptable Microbiological Quality.

Because apples intended for the fresh market and for use in cider are not treated to kill all microorganisms, growers should be aware of the microbial quality of the water that may contact apples. Practices that might expose apples to direct contact with contaminated water, such as irrigation and fertilization or application of pesticides or growth regulators, may increase microbial food safety risks, especially when applied close to harvest. The microbial quality of water can be confirmed by laboratory testing of samples; however, the quality of surface water such as rivers, ponds, reservoirs, and lakes is often unpredictable and can vary over a short time period. Growers should, therefore, be aware of water sources and distribution and check for wastewater discharge or runoff from upstream livestock operations. Groundwater is less likely to be a source of contamination. However, wells should be properly constructed and protected from surface runoff.

Where water quality is unknown or cannot be controlled, growers may want to consider irrigation practices that minimize contact between water and apples. Low-volume sprays or drip, furrow, or underground irrigation are options that should be considered. If fertilizer, pesticide, and growth regulators are applied close to harvest, only potable water should be used to prepare solutions. If water is not safe for human consumption, it should be treated with an approved disinfectant.