Indiana Company Recalls Vine Ripe Tomatoes Due to Salmonella Concerns
Ray & Mascari Inc., an Indianapolis-based company, has initiated a voluntary recall of its 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes packaged in clam shell containers due to potential Salmonella contamination. The recall, announced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), impacts tomatoes sold through Gordon Food Service Stores located across 11 states.
The recall stems from notification received by Ray & Mascari from Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Florida, a supplier of the tomatoes. Hanshaw & Capling Farms informed Ray & Mascari of a recall of a specific lot of tomatoes due to the potential presence of Salmonella in its facilities. These tomatoes were subsequently sent to Ray & Mascari for repackaging into the 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes product now subject to the recall.
Scope of the Recall
The recalled tomatoes were distributed to Gordon Food Service Stores in the following states:
- [Insert list of 11 states from original article here]
Consumers are urged to check their purchased tomatoes for the identifying information of the recalled product. The tomatoes are sold in plastic clamshells containing four tomatoes each. The plastic clamshells have a "VINE RIPE TOMATOES" label, which also includes the statement "Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc., Indianapolis, IN 46204." Most importantly, the product label bears the UPC number 7 96553 20062 1. If consumers have tomatoes matching this description, they are strongly advised not to consume them.
No Illnesses Reported
As of the announcement of the recall, the FDA stated that no illnesses have been reported in connection with the potentially contaminated tomatoes. However, the company and the FDA are taking a proactive approach to prevent any potential health risks associated with Salmonella contamination.
Consumer Advice
The FDA advises customers who have purchased the recalled tomatoes to immediately discard the product. Proper disposal will prevent accidental consumption by humans or animals. Consumers who are unsure whether they have purchased the recalled tomatoes should err on the side of caution and dispose of any tomatoes with similar packaging purchased from Gordon Food Service Stores in the affected states.
Recall Notification and Instructions
Ray & Mascari has taken steps to inform all affected parties about the recall. Gordon Food Service Stores that received the recalled lots have been notified and provided with recall instructions. These instructions include contacting their customers and distribution centers to ensure the removal of the affected product from shelves and warehouses.
Salmonella: Potential Health Risks
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations. According to the FDA, young children, frail or elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of experiencing severe complications from Salmonella infections.
The symptoms of Salmonella poisoning can vary in severity but typically include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Abdominal cramps
These symptoms commonly manifest between six hours and six days after exposure to the bacteria. While most healthy individuals recover within four to seven days, those with weakened immune systems, including children younger than 5 and adults over 65, may experience more severe symptoms that require medical treatment or hospitalization. Serious complications can include dehydration, bacteremia (bloodstream infection), and even death.
Second Tomato Recall in Quick Succession
The Ray & Mascari recall comes shortly after a separate recall of tomatoes from Williams Farms Repack LLC in three states, also due to potential Salmonella contamination. This underscores the importance of rigorous food safety practices and ongoing monitoring to prevent outbreaks of foodborne illnesses.
Preventative Measures and Food Safety
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with consuming contaminated produce and the importance of following safe food handling practices. Consumers should always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before consumption, even if they appear clean. Proper storage and handling of produce can also help to minimize the risk of contamination.
Ray & Mascari Inc. Contact Information
Consumers with questions or concerns regarding the recall can contact Ray & Mascari Inc. directly. [Insert contact information here if available]. The FDA also encourages consumers to report any adverse reactions or illnesses potentially related to the recalled tomatoes through its MedWatch program.
FDA’s Role in Food Safety
The FDA plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the nation’s food supply. The agency monitors food production and distribution, conducts inspections of food processing facilities, and sets standards for food safety. When a potential health risk is identified, the FDA works with companies to initiate recalls and inform the public about the potential danger.
The FDA’s oversight helps to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses and ensure the integrity of the food supply chain. Through collaborations with industry, government agencies, and public health organizations, the FDA continuously strives to improve food safety practices and prevent outbreaks of foodborne illnesses.
Ongoing Investigation
The FDA and Ray & Mascari Inc. are continuing to investigate the source of the potential Salmonella contamination to prevent future incidents. This investigation will likely involve reviewing the farming practices, processing procedures, and distribution channels involved in the production of the recalled tomatoes. The findings of this investigation will be used to implement corrective actions and strengthen food safety protocols.
