Cantaloupes recalled in 19 states for salmonella risk.
Attention, shoppers! Thousands of juicy cantaloupes sold in 19 states and Washington D.C. are being recalled due to a potential salmonella contamination, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on September 28.
Hold on to your taste buds! Eagle Produce LLC, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, has voluntarily recalled a whopping 6,456 cases of whole cantaloupes after the FDA discovered the presence of salmonella during testing at a distribution center.
These delicious fruits were distributed between September 5 and September 16 in various supermarkets across California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington D.C.
Attention shoppers! The recalled products include Kandy Produce whole cantaloupes with the UPC number code 4050 and lot codes 797901, 797900, and 804918, according to the FDA.
But don’t worry, other products and lot code dates are not affected by this recall.
As of September 27, there have been no reported illnesses linked to the recall, the FDA assured.
Listen up, folks! The FDA strongly advises customers who purchased these cantaloupes to refrain from consuming them and to dispose of them immediately.
For more information, don’t hesitate to contact Eagle Produce LLC at 1-800-627-8674. Their customer service is available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time.Salmonella: The Sneaky Bacteria
Let’s talk about salmonella, the culprit behind this recall. Salmonella is a bacteria that resides in the intestines of both humans and animals. It can be contracted through various means, such as consuming contaminated food or water, or even coming into contact with infected animals. However, it’s important to note that cooking kills salmonella.
Salmonella bacteria are quite resilient, making them a tough opponent to tackle. They can survive in a wide range of hosts and environments, from birds and reptiles to amphibians and even our beloved pets. Not only that, but they can also persist in frozen, fresh, and processed goods.
So, what are the symptoms of a salmonella infection? The most common signs include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Some individuals may also experience nausea, vomiting, or headaches. Typically, symptoms appear within six hours to six days after infection and can last anywhere from four days to a week. However, it’s worth mentioning that some people may experience a prolonged period of symptoms spanning several weeks, while others may not exhibit any symptoms at all.
But beware! If the infection spreads beyond the intestines, it can become life-threatening.
Hold on tight! In July, a salmonella outbreak linked to ground beef affected at least 16 people across four states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The affected states were Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts. Out of those cases, six individuals required hospitalization, as reported by the CDC. The illnesses occurred between April 27 and June 16.
However, the CDC believes that the actual number of people affected by the outbreak could be higher than the reported cases, and the outbreak may extend beyond the known states.
“This is because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for salmonella,” the CDC explained in a statement released on July 25.
“In addition, recent illnesses may not yet be reported as it usually takes three to four weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak,” the statement added.
According to health officials, salmonella bacteria cause approximately 1.35 million human infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 deaths each year in the United States.
Aldgra Fredly, Jacky Guan, and Sean Lin contributed to this report.
What precautions can individuals take to prevent the spread of salmonella and ensure food safety
Imals to soil and water. This adaptability allows them to persist and cause infections in different species.
When humans ingest food contaminated with salmonella, they can experience symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. These symptoms typically last for a few days and may require medical treatment in more severe cases. Infants, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of salmonella.
To prevent the spread of salmonella, it is crucial to practice good hygiene and follow proper food safety measures. This includes thoroughly washing hands before and after handling food, properly cooking meat and eggs, and avoiding cross-contamination of raw and cooked foods. It is also important to store and handle fruits and vegetables properly to prevent contamination.
In the case of the cantaloupe recall, it is reassuring that no illnesses have been reported so far. However, it is still essential for consumers to take the necessary precautions and dispose of any potentially contaminated cantaloupes. The rapid response by Eagle Produce LLC in voluntarily recalling the affected products demonstrates their commitment to consumer safety.
If you have purchased the recalled cantaloupes, it is recommended to contact Eagle Produce LLC for further assistance. They can provide additional information and address any concerns or questions you may have.
The FDA and other regulatory authorities play a critical role in monitoring and addressing potential food safety issues. Their efforts in conducting routine inspections and testing are vital in identifying and preventing the spread of bacteria like salmonella. It is essential for consumers to stay informed about recalls and take appropriate action to protect their health.
In conclusion, the recent cantaloupe recall due to potential salmonella contamination serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety. Although no illnesses have been reported, it is crucial for consumers to be aware of the recall and take necessary precautions. By following proper hygiene and food safety practices, we can minimize the risk of contracting salmonella and other foodborne illnesses. Remember, your health and well-being are in your hands.
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