Williams Farms Repack LLC has announced a voluntary recall of specific lots of tomatoes. They decided to do so because they feared their products might be contaminated with Salmonella bacteria. As many of you may know, on May 2, we announced a recall. This covers tomatoes that are packed in nine packaging sizes sold through the Williams Farms Repack and H&C Farms brands. This precautionary measure impacts all products shipped to wholesalers and distributors throughout Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.
The recalled tomatoes were shipped between April 23 and April 28. This has created a dangerous lapse in protection for the health and safety of consumers in those impacted states. Salmonella is an infectious bacteria that can lead to serious foodborne illness. Symptoms typically start between six hours and six days after consuming contaminated food. While public health officials continue to keep a watchful eye on this situation, consumers are encouraged to inspect their items for any of the linked products.
Details of the Recall
These recalled tomatoes are of all shapes and sizes. Specifically, the affected lot codes are as follows: the 5×6 packages weighing 25 lbs bear lot code R4467, while the 6×6 packages weighing 25 lbs include lot codes R4467 and R4470. Other tomatoes packed under other brand names by Williams Farms Repack LLC might have these same lot codes.
Consumers who have bought tomatoes with these PLU codes should not eat them. They should instead take the products back to where they bought them or safely recycle them. By announcing this recall, Williams Farms Repack illustrates its joint dedication to food safety and protecting the American public.
Health Risks Associated with Salmonella
Dangerous Salmonella bacteria that can severely threaten consumer health. Infections can cause severe gastrointestinal effects such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Most people get better on their own without medicine. Severe cases do occur, particularly for young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
The FDA has recently warned consumers about the possible dangers posed by these tomatoes. They continue to urge anyone who develops symptoms of Salmonella infection after eating any of the recalled products to see a doctor right away. Public health officials are still working to identify the source of contamination, so it can be prevented from happening again.
Consumer Guidance
While steps are being taken to reduce the danger of this recall, consumers can help prevent foodborne illness by continuing to practice safe food handling. It’s important to make sure you’re washing your hands, surfaces and produce before eating them. Furthermore, consumers must educate themselves on product recalls via reliable sources like the FDA.
Leave a Reply