Tomatoes Planted Next To A Termite Canister

Q: I planted two different tomato plants in April. One was planted next to a termite baiting system that was installed five years ago. A week ago, it started wilting. Could this be a result of planting it next to the termite canister? Is there a risk of contamination? 

A: It seems to me that you have two questions: Will the termite bait station contaminate the tomato fruit, and will the bait station affect the growth of your tomato plant? I feel confident in saying that the contents of the station, usually untreated wood, cardboard or a chemical bait that has been studied for years to make sure it poses no harm to humans or pets, would not contain anything harmful to you via the fruit. Likewise, I very much doubt there is anything left after five years that would affect plant growth.