San Francisco Chronicle, "Spinach growers were warned about produce safety"

State, federal officials concerned by 20 reports of tainted greens

          Just 10 months before fresh spinach started sending people to the hospital, state and federal officials warned Salinas Valley growers and packers to clean up their act after a decade of deadly E. coli bacteria breakouts.
          In November 2005, the FDA sent a letter to growers, packers, processors and shippers warning them to improve produce safety.
          "In view of continuing outbreaks," the agency wrote, "we encourage firms to consider modifying their operations accordingly to ensure that they are taking the appropriate measures to provide a safe product to the consumer."

Learn more about e. coli and injuries from tainted spinach and spinach injury lawsuits.