Chlorine dioxide and chlorine effectiveness to prevent Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella cross-contamination on fresh-cut Red Chard

► Water disinfection with ClO2 controlled E. coli but not Salmonella in process water. ► Monitoring de-watering effluent is effective for detecting contamination potential. ► Rapid test kits were effective in detecting low levels of pathogens on red chard.