Federal authorities report an expanded tomato recall affecting multiple states due to potential Salmonella contamination. The action involves vine-ripe tomatoes distributed by two separate companies that sourced from the same supplier.
Ray & Mascari, Inc. of Indianapolis, Indiana, announced a recall for 4-Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes packaged in plastic clamshell containers. This recall follows notification from Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Immokalee, Florida, regarding the possible presence of Salmonella at their facility.
Tomatoes from Ray & Mascari subject to the recall were sold through Gordon Food Service stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
A separate action involves tomatoes distributed by Williams Farms Repack LLC, also sourced from Hanshaw & Capling Farms. These tomatoes were sold to wholesalers and distributors in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration published notices regarding both recalls.
The Ray & Mascari tomatoes were sold in 20-ounce clamshell packages marked with UPC# 7 96553 20062 1. Master cases may carry Lot# RM250424 15250B or Lot# RM250427 15250B. The plastic clamshells are labeled "VINE RIPE TOMATOES" and indicate "Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc., Indianapolis, IN 46204."
Tomatoes distributed by Williams Farms Repack were sold under various descriptions, including 5x6 25lb, 6x6 25lb, Combo 25lb, 4x4 2layer, 4x5 2layer, 60ct 2layer, 60ct 18lb loose, XL 18lb Loose, and 3ct trays. Affected products have lot codes R4467 or R4470. Three-count trays may have UPC: 0 33383 65504 8.
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. Healthy people infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Illness usually lasts four to seven days.
Authorities advise consumers who purchased the recalled products to discard them immediately or return them to the point of purchase for a refund.
To date, no illnesses related to either of these recalls have been reported.
Questions about the Ray & Mascari recall can be directed to the company at 1-317-637-0234. For inquiries about the Williams Farms Repack and H&C Farms recall, consumers may contact Jason Breland at 843-866-7707 or 843-599-5154. Both companies are available during standard business hours.
