Tomato Recall: Two Separate Incidents Affect 14 States Due to Potential Salmonella Contamination
Consumers who have recently purchased tomatoes should be aware of two separate recalls impacting produce sold across 14 states. The recalls, initiated by Ray & Mascari Inc. and Williams Farms Repack LLC, are due to concerns about potential Salmonella contamination. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings urging consumers to check their tomato purchases and take appropriate action to prevent illness.
Ray & Mascari Inc. Recall:
Indiana-based Ray & Mascari Inc. has recalled its 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes packaged in clamshell containers. These tomatoes were distributed through Gordon Food Service Stores across 11 states. The recall was initiated after Ray & Mascari Inc. was notified by Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Florida that they were recalling a specific lot of tomatoes. Hanshaw & Capling Farms raised concerns about the potential presence of Salmonella in their facilities, which could have affected the tomatoes sent to Ray & Mascari Inc. for repackaging.
The affected Ray & Mascari Inc. tomatoes were sold in the following states:
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Identifying the Recalled Ray & Mascari Inc. Tomatoes:
Consumers can identify the recalled Ray & Mascari Inc. tomatoes by the following characteristics:
- Packaging: The tomatoes are sold in plastic clamshell containers.
- Quantity: Each clamshell contains four tomatoes.
- Label: The label on the clamshell reads "VINE RIPE TOMATOES" and includes the statement "Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc., Indianapolis, IN 46204."
- UPC Number: The UPC number on the label is 7 96553 20062 1.
Williams Farms Repack LLC Recall:
In a separate incident, Williams Farms Repack LLC has also recalled tomatoes distributed to three states on May 2. The Williams Farms Repack tomatoes were recalled due to similar concerns about possible Salmonella contamination.
The affected Williams Farms Repack tomatoes were packaged and sold to wholesalers and distributors in the following states between April 23-28:
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
Identifying the Recalled Williams Farms Repack Tomatoes:
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What to Do If You Have Purchased the Recalled Tomatoes:
The FDA is urging consumers who have purchased the recalled tomatoes from either Ray & Mascari Inc. or Williams Farms Repack LLC not to consume the products. Instead, consumers should take one of the following actions:
- Return the Tomatoes for a Full Refund: Return the tomatoes to the place of purchase for a full refund.
- Discard the Tomatoes: If returning the tomatoes is not feasible, discard the affected items immediately.
Risk of Salmonella Contamination:
Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, according to the FDA.
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection:
Healthy people infected with Salmonella typically experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Diarrhea (which may be bloody)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
In rare cases, Salmonella can enter the bloodstream and lead to more severe illnesses, such as:
- Arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms)
- Endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves)
- Arthritis
Importance of Food Safety:
These recalls highlight the importance of food safety practices throughout the supply chain, from farms to processing facilities to retail stores. Food producers and distributors have a responsibility to implement rigorous quality control measures to prevent contamination and protect consumers from potential health risks. Consumers also play a crucial role in food safety by staying informed about recalls, checking product labels, and following safe food handling practices.
Ongoing Investigation:
The FDA and the affected companies are continuing to investigate the source of the Salmonella contamination and working to ensure that all affected products are removed from the market. More information will be released as it becomes available.
Staying Informed:
Consumers can stay informed about food recalls and other food safety alerts by visiting the FDA’s website or subscribing to email alerts. It is essential to stay informed about potential food safety risks to protect your health and the health of your family.
Call to Action:
If you have recently purchased tomatoes, take the time to check the product labels and packaging information to determine if your tomatoes are part of the Ray & Mascari Inc. or Williams Farms Repack LLC recalls. If you have purchased affected tomatoes, do not consume them. Return them to the store for a refund or discard them immediately. If you experience any symptoms of Salmonella infection, seek medical attention promptly.
This comprehensive summary provides important information about the tomato recalls and emphasizes the importance of food safety awareness. By taking these precautions, consumers can help prevent the spread of Salmonella and protect their health.
