Multiple distributors have announced food recalls of tomatoes potentially contaminated with salmonella bacteria. The actions affect products distributed to at least 14 states across the East Coast and Midwest, adding to recent Recalled Food Item incidents.
Indianapolis, Indiana-based Ray & Mascari Inc. initiated a recall for specific lots of its 4-count vine-ripe tomatoes packaged in clamshell containers. This measure follows notification from Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Immokalee, Florida, regarding the possible presence of salmonella at their facility.
The vine-ripe tomatoes subject to the Ray & Mascari Inc. recall were distributed through Gordon Food Service Stores in 11 states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. The packaging includes a label identifying Ray & Mascari Inc. and lot numbers RM250424 15250B or RM250427 15250B on the master case.
Separately, Williams Farms Repack LLC, based in The Lodge, South Carolina, recalled tomatoes distributed to wholesalers and distributors in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The affected products were shipped between April 23 and April 28. Williams Farms Repack received notification from Southeast Tomato Distributors that tomatoes sourced from H&C Farms might be contaminated.
The recalled Williams Farms Repack LLC tomatoes bear either Williams Farms Repack or H&C Farms labels and include various sizes such as 5x6, 6x6, Combo, and 2-layer packs, as well as loose tomatoes and 3-count trays. Associated lot codes are R4467 and R4470. Information on specific recalls is available on the FDA Website.
Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious infections, particularly in young children, frail or elderly people, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with salmonella typically experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Salmonella Information notes that in rare instances, the infection can enter the bloodstream, leading to more severe conditions like arterial infections or arthritis.
Officials state that no illnesses related to either of these tomato recalls have been reported to date.
Consumers who purchased the affected 4-count vine-ripe tomatoes from Ray & Mascari Inc. or the various sizes recalled by Williams Farms Repack LLC should not consume the products. The Affected Product should be discarded. Consumers may also return the product to the place of purchase for a refund. Inquiries regarding the Ray & Mascari Inc. recall can be directed to the company during business hours.
