ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Growers and gardeners are being advised that fruit and vegetables that come into contact with flood waters should not be eaten.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture says flood water can contain numerous contaminants, so growers and gardeners in flood-impacted areas are urged to carefully assess the status of their fruits and vegetables.

Dairy and Food Inspection Division Director Heidi Kassenborg says any edible produce that has been exposed to these waters should be considered adulterated and unfit for human consumption. She says farmers are ultimately responsible for the condition of the crops they market, and the top priority must be ensuring the integrity of the food supply.

The risk of contamination is generally considered highest for food crops that were submerged in water overflowing from rivers or streams.