CDC warns against pre-cut cantaloupe due to escalating salmonella outbreak
OAN’s Elizabeth Volberding
10:17 AM – Monday, December 4, 2023
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued a warning to shoppers about pre-cut cantaloupe sold at various stores. Recent reports have linked store-bought fruit to a salmonella outbreak.
Health experts are advising shoppers to avoid cantaloupe sold at specific stores due to the recent outbreak of salmonella. There have been 18 new cases of illness related to the contaminated fruit.
According to the CDC, nearly 117 people in 34 states have become sick from the tainted cantaloupe. Out of those, 61 have been hospitalized and two have died.
The severity of the illnesses caused by the contaminated cantaloupe is alarming, with over half of the affected individuals requiring hospitalization. This includes vulnerable populations such as residents of long-term care centers and children in daycare. The CDC is urging consumers to be cautious due to the extensive recalls and uncertainty surrounding the origin of the cantaloupes.
“If you cannot tell if your cantaloupe, including pre-cut cantaloupe or products containing pre-cut cantaloupe is part of the recall, do not eat or use it and throw it away,” the FDA said in a statement.
The CDC has specifically warned consumers to avoid pre-cut cantaloupe sold at popular grocery stores like Kroger, Trader Joe’s, and Sprouts Farmers Market. They have also advised against consuming whole cantaloupes and pre-cut cantaloupes from the brands Malichita and Rudy if the origin of the fruit is unknown.
“CDC is concerned about this outbreak because the illnesses are severe,” the agency said in a food safety alert. “Do not eat pre-cut cantaloupes if you don’t know whether Malichita or Rudy brand cantaloupes were used. … This includes cantaloupe chunks and fruit mixes with cantaloupes at restaurants and grocery stores.”
The CDC is also urging companies not to sell contaminated cantaloupe and to thoroughly wash and sanitize any objects that come into contact with it.
Furthermore, the CDC will continue to investigate the outbreak and identify any other cantaloupe or cut fruit products that may be infected.
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Why is it important to wash hands thoroughly before and after handling cantaloupes or any fresh produce?
Ore, the CDC is advising consumers to follow these safety precautions to prevent further spread of salmonella:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling cantaloupe or any fresh produce.
- Clean and sanitize any cutting boards, knives, or other kitchen utensils used to prepare cantaloupe.
- Store cantaloupe in the refrigerator, away from other foods, and at a temperature of 40°F or below.
- Do not consume cantaloupe if it appears to be moldy, has an unusual odor, or feels soft or mushy.
- If in doubt about the origin or safety of the cantaloupe, do not eat or use it and dispose of it properly.
Salmonella is a bacterial infection that can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, it can lead to hospitalization and even death, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children.
The CDC and FDA are working diligently to trace the source of the contaminated cantaloupe and take necessary measures to prevent further illnesses. Investigations into the outbreak are ongoing, and additional guidance may be issued as more information becomes available.
In the meantime, consumers are urged to stay informed about food recalls and potential risks by regularly checking the CDC and FDA websites. It is also important to practice safe food handling and preparation techniques to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
By staying vigilant and following the advice of health experts, we can protect ourselves and our communities from the dangers of contaminated food. Together, we can ensure a safer and healthier future for all.
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