A batch of vine-ripe tomatoes sold in clamshell packaging has been recalled in 11 U.S. states after fears of potential salmonella contamination. The warning comes from Ray & Mascari Inc., an Indianapolis-based produce company, which confirmed the recall on the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) official site.
The affected product is labeled “4-Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes”, packaged in plastic clamshell containers. It was distributed through Gordon Food Service Stores across Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin, according to the FDA.
Health Risks: What You Need to Know
The recall is no minor matter. Salmonella can pose a serious threat, especially to children, the elderly, and anyone with a compromised immune system. While healthy individuals typically experience symptoms like fever, diarrhea (often bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, the bacteria can lead to more severe complications in rare cases.
“Infection with salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis,” the FDA notice stated.
Tracing the Contamination: Florida Farm Connection
Ray & Mascari Inc. said the issue originated from their supplier, Hanshaw & Capling Farms, located in Immokalee, Florida. That farm notified them of potential salmonella contamination linked to a specific tomato lot.
As a result, Ray & Mascari repacked the affected tomatoes into their branded clamshell containers and issued the recall.
The company emphasized, “Consumers should discard the product and do not consume.”
Hanshaw & Capling Farms confirmed they “initiated the recall due to the possible presence of salmonella in their facility.”
Packaging Details: How to Identify the Recalled Tomatoes
Here’s how to spot the recalled product:
- Packaging: Clear plastic clamshell holding four tomatoes
- Label: “VINE RIPE TOMATOES” with “Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc., Indianapolis, IN 46204”
- Master Case: A cardboard produce box with a lid containing 12 clamshells
- Lot Numbers: RM250424 15250B or RM250427 15250B
If any of this sounds familiar to what’s sitting in your fridge — throw it out.
No Illnesses Reported Yet, But Caution Urged
As of now, no illnesses have been reported, according to the FDA’s notice. However, both the FDA and Ray & Mascari are urging extreme caution.
Customers who received the product have already been contacted with detailed recall instructions to inform their distribution networks and customers.
