Untreated surface water may be used to make ice for postharvest activities.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only if treated with chlorine
• D. Only for certain crops

Answer: (B)

Untreated water used to make ice that will contact produce or be used in postharvest handling can introduce dangerous microorganisms. Ice acts as a vehicle for contamination because it melts and comes into direct contact with the product, equipment, or surfaces that touch edible food. Therefore, ice used in postharvest activities must be made from potable water or water that has been treated and validated to potable standards to ensure safety.

Relying on chlorine treatment alone isn’t considered a reliable safeguard, since treatment effectiveness can vary with conditions such as organic load, contact time, and biofilms, and residual chlorine may not reach all contamination sites. There isn’t a crop-specific exception; safety requires potable water for ice regardless of the produce involved.