News Romaine lettuce: Why it’s hard to keep it safe from E. coli and other bacteria November 22, 2018Zlati Meyer, USA TODAYComments Off on Romaine lettuce: Why it’s hard to keep it safe from E. coli and other bacteria Lettuce is more vulnerable than many other foods to bacteria outbreaks. It lacks a protective rind, isn't cooked and has a short shelf life.