Why are raspberries considered a potential source of contamination?

Raspberries are considered a potential source of contamination primarily because they can harbor pathogens in their crevices. This characteristic makes them more susceptible to contamination with harmful microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses, which can thrive in the small, sometimes inaccessible spaces on the fruit. These crevices can trap dirt, water, and organic matter where pathogens may reside, making it challenging to ensure thorough cleaning and sanitation.

While imported fruits can pose a risk due to varying agricultural standards and inspection protocols, the fundamental issue with raspberries lies in their physical structure that can conceal contaminants. Additionally, factors like sugar content and refrigeration requirements do not inherently contribute to the contamination risk; instead, they affect how the fruit is handled and stored but do not directly relate to the presence of pathogens on the fruit itself.