FDA expands cantaloupe recall after salmonella infections double
Nov 27, 2023, 12:39 PM | Updated: 12:42 pm
MIAMI, FL - SEPTEMBER 29: In this photo illustration a cantaloupe is seen sliced open on September 29, 2011 in Miami, Florida. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that cantaloupe from Jensen Farms of Holly, Colorado have the bacterium listeria and so far, the outbreak has sickened more than 70 people, and killed up to 16, in 18 states. (Photo Illustration by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
(Photo Illustration by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
U.S. health officials recalled three more brands of whole and pre-cut cantaloupes Friday as the number of people sickened by salmonella more than doubled this week.
Nearly 100 people in 32 states have gotten sick from the contaminated fruits. Arizona, Missouri, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Ohio have the highest number of cases. Two people have died of the infections in Minnesota, and 45 people are hospitalized nationwide.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s original recall included Malichita brand whole cantaloupe, Vinyard brand pre-cut cantaloupe and ALDI whole cantaloupe and pre-cut fruit products. Rudy brand whole cantaloupes and Freshness Guaranteed brand and RaceTrac brand pre-cut cantaloupes joined the list Friday.
Health officials say anyone who bought the recalled fruits should throw them away and wash surfaces that touched them with hot, soapy water or in a dishwasher.
Most people infected with salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps within six hour to six days after consuming food contaminated with the bacteria. Illnesses typically last four to seven days. Vulnerable people, including children, people older than 65 and those with weakened immune systems may develop severe illnesses that require medical care or hospitalization.
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AP Health Writer JoNel Aleccia contributed to this report.
