Canned tomatoes. Getty Images
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled tomatoes sold in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The recall reached its highest warning level after concerns about salmonella contamination.
What Happened?
On May 28, the FDA announced a Class 1 recall for tomatoes from Williams Farms Repack, LLC. This type of recall means the tomatoes could cause serious illness or even death if eaten. The tomatoes were first recalled on May 3 for possible salmonella but now the risk is confirmed as very high.
Williams Farms Produce Sales Co., Inc. from South Carolina issued the recall. They sold tomatoes in several types of packages, including 50 three-pack trays, 77 ten-pound boxes, and 419 boxes with 60 tomatoes each.
Salmonella Explained
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause infection. It affects the stomach and intestines, leading to diarrhea, fever, and cramps. This infection spreads through food or water contaminated with the bacteria. People with weak immune systems, young children, and older adults are at the highest risk.
Luckily, no illnesses have been reported from the tomatoes sold between April 23 and 28.
Earlier Recalls in Other States
Earlier in May, tomatoes were recalled in 14 other states because of similar salmonella risks. Two companies, Williams Farms Repack LLC. and Ray & Mascari Inc., took action to pull their tomatoes from stores.
Ray & Mascari recalled their “4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes” sold in clear plastic containers on May 3. These were sold in many states, including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
The company warned that salmonella infections can be very serious and sometimes deadly, especially for children and people with weaker immune systems.
What Should Consumers Do?
If you live in the affected states or bought tomatoes from these companies, check your packages carefully. Do not eat any tomatoes that came from Williams Farms or Ray & Mascari if they match the recalled descriptions. Instead, throw them away or return them to the store.
The FDA continues to watch the situation closely. The recall aims to keep people safe and stop any potential outbreaks of salmonella illness.
