TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – As the cyclosporiasis outbreak continues and health officials remind people to thoroughly wash fresh produce, one local wildlife rehabilitation center has a different message for anyone hesitant about the fruits and vegetables in their fridge: Don’t throw them away — donate them.
Nature’s Nursery, which is currently caring for nearly 660 animals, relies on fresh produce as an important part of its daily feeding routine.
Garden Manager Jerri Fink said donations of peppers, kale, lettuce, cucumber, zucchini, melons and berries are all welcome.
According to the FDA, the cyclospora parasite only infects humans, not animals — meaning produce that may give people pause can still safely feed wildlife in rehabilitation.
“Our guys are not that picky, a bug here or there, a worm here or there, is kind of like ketchup or a side on a steak to them,” Fink said.
Health officials continue to remind the public that washing produce remains important during the outbreak.
Nature’s Nursery accepts produce donations any day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you can’t make it during those hours, the center suggests freezing the items first and dropping them off at your convenience.
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