Salmonella Outbreak: FDA Issues Urgent Recall on Cantaloupes – Check Brands and Take Precautions
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has connected the consumption of the implicated fruit to a minimum of two fatalities, with 117 reported cases of illness and 61 hospitalizations across 34 states. Notably, 18 of these illnesses have been documented since November 24th, reported NBC News.
In an ongoing investigation, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded its recall advisory regarding potential Salmonella contamination in cantaloupes and related products. The affected items are traced back to specific brands and retailers, said CDC in a press release.
Recalled Whole Cantaloupes:
Consumers are urged to check for the following labels on whole fresh cantaloupes: “Malichita,” “Rudy,” “4050,” and “Product of Mexico/produit du Mexique.” Retailers and wholesalers may have received recalled whole melons from Crown Jewels Produce labeled “Malichita/Z Farms,” Sofia Produce as “Malichita” or “Rudy,” and Pacific Trellis with specific lot codes.
Recalled Pre-cut Cantaloupe and Products:
Several brands and products containing pre-cut cantaloupes are affected, including ALDI, Vinyard, Freshness Guaranteed (at select Walmart stores), KwikTrip, Bix Produce, and GHGA pre-cut products under Sprouts Farmers Market, Trader Joes, and unbranded items.
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection:
Symptoms may manifest within 12 to 72 hours after consumption and include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Severe cases are more likely in children under five, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Status and Recommendations:
The FDA’s investigation is ongoing, with updates to the advisory as new information arises. Consumers, restaurants, retailers, and wholesalers are strongly advised not to eat, sell, or serve the recalled cantaloupe or related products. If unsure about the product’s status, it should be discarded.
Frozen Cantaloupe:
Consumers are reminded to check freezers for recalled fresh or cut cantaloupe, discarding any identified items frozen for later use.
Cleaning and Sanitizing:
Those who purchased or received recalled cantaloupes are advised to follow FDA’s safe handling and cleaning advice, exercising extra vigilance in cleaning surfaces and containers to prevent cross-contamination.
Contact Healthcare Provider:
If experiencing symptoms of a Salmonella infection after consuming recalled cantaloupe, individuals are urged to contact their healthcare provider promptly.
The FDA emphasizes the importance of pre-cut fruit manufacturers ensuring proper cleaning and sanitizing to prevent cross-contamination in processing facilities.
For the most current information, the public is encouraged to stay updated on the FDA’s ongoing investigation and subsequent advisories. The agency will continue to provide updates as they become available.
CDC estimates that Salmonella causes approximately 1.35 million illnesses, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths annually in the United States.
