Federal regulators have announced two separate recalls for tomatoes across a total of 14 states due to concerns about salmonella contamination. No illnesses have been reported in connection with either recall as of Monday.
The Food and Drug Administration advises customers who purchased the potentially affected produce to return it or dispose of it.
One recall involves tomatoes distributed by Ray & Mascari, based in Indianapolis. This action affects four-count "vine ripe tomatoes" sold in plastic clamshell containers, specifically 20-ounce packages with UPC# 7 96553 20062 1. Master cases are marked with Lot# RM250424 15250B or Lot# RM250427 15250B.
These tomatoes were sold through Gordon Food Service Stores in 11 states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
Ray & Mascari initiated its recall after being notified by Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Immokalee, Florida, about the possible presence of the bacteria in its facility. Details are available on the FDA’s website.
A second recall was issued by Williams Farms Repack LLC on May 2. This action concerns tomatoes with lot codes R4467 and R4470, affecting various sizes and packaging including 25lb boxes, 2layer boxes, 18lb loose products, and 3 ct trays.
The tomatoes from Williams Farms Repack were packaged and sold to wholesalers and distributors in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Distribution occurred between April 23 and 28. The full list of affected products is posted on the FDA website.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause foodborne illness. Symptoms typically include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
While most people recover within days without treatment, a salmonella infection can sometimes lead to serious illness or be fatal, especially for young children, elderly individuals, or those with weakened immune systems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies salmonella as a leading cause of foodborne illness.
