A report claiming fresh produce is spreading the norovirus, published in The Times newspaper, has been slammed by the fresh produce industry.

The article, referencing research carried out by the Dutch National Institute for Health, claims that dirty water used to dilute fertilisers is introducing the virus into the fresh produce supply chain, and also suggests that eating lettuce and soft fruit is “risky” due to both being frequently sprayed with pesticides.

NFU horticultural adviser Chris Hartfield said: “The article misrepresents the findings of a single scientific study, which in itself makes fairly bold assumptions.”

Hartfield believes it is “irresponsible” for a major newspaper to run an article suggesting people should consider eating less fruit and salad products at a time when fresh produce consumption is at a low.

Nicholas Marston, director of British Summer Fruits, also criticised the story. “The study does not identify any risks in real-life situations and makes bold assertions about human norovirus based on laboratory results from out-of-date reference information,” said Marston. Hartfield and Marston both insist that UK growers operate to the “highest standards in the world” and claim that there is no truth in the study.

According to the report, Dutch scientist Katharina Verhaelen, who led the study, said raspberries and strawberries are the fruits most likely to carry the norovirus as they are sprayed with diluted fungicides just before harvest to increase shelf life.

“Viruses persist best at cold temperatures,” said Verhaelen. She also claims that cooking, ahead of washing, is the “most effective way” to kill off the virus altogether when preparing fresh produce.

Verhaelen’s claims have also been discredited by fellow scientist Dr Ravi Gupta, a virologist at University College London. He said: “I don’t think people should be concerned. There’s been no norovirus outbreaks linked to the consumption of fruit and veg.”