Soils

Soils are the earth in which plants are grown, and plant growth rates plus the yield and quality of their fruits depend on the composition of the soil they grow in. Texture, organic matter, pH, and mineral content govern nutrient uptake and therefore the nutritional quality of crops, while contaminated soils can transfer heavy metals, pesticide residues, or pathogens such as Salmonella onto produce. Good agricultural practice includes regular soil testing, crop rotation, compost management, and controlling irrigation water quality to keep soils productive and clean. For food safety, soil is where prevention starts: healthy, well-managed soil grows safer food.