Why Is Romaine Lettuce More Prone to E. Coli? Romaine lettuce is consumed more than any other lettuce. But it's also been recalled three times in 2018 for outbreaks of
E. Coli. The exact cause of these outbreaks has remained
a mystery. One theory suggests that the conical shape of the plant offers protection from damaging UV rays that kill bacteria. The popularity of romaine lettuce could also explain why it sickens so many people. The leafy greens are grown in two primary locations: Yuma, Arizona or central California. Nobody likes the idea of contaminated lettuce, but scientists say there is little to fear. 130 million servings of romaine are harvested every day, but only 287 people were affected by the E. Coli outbreak. According to food safety experts, there is negligible risk of infection from
romaine consumption.