Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
A significant recall has been issued for “4-Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes” packaged in clamshell containers due to potential salmonella contamination. The product is manufactured by Ray & Mascari Inc., a company based in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published the recall announcement, highlighting the seriousness of this health concern. Consumers are advised to take note of this situation promptly.
Affected Product Details
The recalled tomatoes were distributed through Gordon Food Service Stores across 11 states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. This wide distribution increases the urgency for consumers in these regions to check their purchases.
Health Risks Associated with Salmonella
Salmonella poses a serious health risk, especially for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. According to the recall notice, salmonella can lead to severe infections that may be fatal.
Individuals infected with salmonella typically experience symptoms including fever, diarrhea—which can be bloody—nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to severe complications such as arterial infections, endocarditis, or arthritis.
Previous Recalls and Warnings
This recall follows a trend of food safety alerts in recent months. Other products have also faced similar fates due to contamination risks. Consumers are reminded to stay vigilant about food safety and recall announcements.
Reason for the Recall
Ray & Mascari Inc. was notified by Hanshaw & Capling Farms in Immokalee, Florida, about the possible contamination in the batch of tomatoes they received and repacked. Hanshaw & Capling Farms initiated the recall after detecting salmonella risk within their facility.
The notice states that customers who purchased the affected tomato lot have been informed and instructed on how to contact their customers and distribution centers regarding the recall.
Packaging and Identification
Consumers should be aware that the product is packaged in plastic clamshell containers, each containing four tomatoes. The packaging features a label identifying the item as “VINE RIPE TOMATOES” and lists Ray & Mascari Inc. as the packer from Indianapolis, IN. The master case, typically a cardboard produce box with a lid, contains 12 of these clamshells and is marked with Lot# RM250424 15250B or Lot# RM250427 15250B.
Despite the severity of the situation, no illnesses related to these tomatoes have been reported thus far in connection with this recall.
Consumer Advisory and Actions
Consumers who have purchased the recalled product are urged to take immediate action. The FDA recommends discarding the tomatoes and refraining from consumption to avoid any health risks.
For any inquiries or reports of illness, individuals are encouraged to contact Ray & Mascari Inc. during regular business hours. Staying informed during food recalls is essential for ensuring community health and safety.
Staying Informed
This is not the first instance of a food recall due to contamination risks, nor will it likely be the last. As such, consumers must remain vigilant about product recalls, especially when it comes to fresh produce. Regularly checking credible sources for updates on food safety can help protect consumers from health risks associated with contaminated products.
In conclusion, the recall of the vine-ripe tomatoes is a potent reminder of the importance of food safety practices. Consumers should remain cautious and informed to safeguard their health and that of their families.
