Tomato Recall Alert: FDA Flags Serious Salmonella Threat

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (F.D.A.) has raised the urgency of a Tomato Recall in three southeastern states. The agency warns that the affected tomatoes may pose a serious risk of illness or death due to possible salmonella contamination.

Originally recalled in early May, the tomatoes were distributed between April 23 and April 28. They were sent to Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina under the H&C Farms label. Packages ranged from three-packs to 25-pound boxes.

On Wednesday, the FDA escalated the recall to a Class I level—the highest risk category. This means the product has a reasonable chance of causing severe health problems or even death.

Officials say that while most of the contaminated tomatoes are likely off the market, danger still exists. Salmonella can survive for weeks in dry places and for months in wet or frozen environments.

Williams Farms Repack, the South Carolina distributor, has not commented. H&C Farms has also declined to speak on the matter.

Health officials urge everyone to take this Tomato Recall seriously. Children under five, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems face the greatest danger. But even healthy individuals should avoid eating the affected tomatoes.

Each year, salmonella sickens over one million Americans and causes more than 400 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The bacteria can cause fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. Symptoms may last several days and could require medical care.

This warning follows several recent food safety concerns. In the past few weeks, recalls have affected canned tuna and onions, while norovirus and E. coli outbreaks have also made headlines.

Experts stress the importance of careful food handling. Washing produce thoroughly and checking recall lists can help prevent illness.

If you purchased tomatoes under the H&C Farms label between April 23 and 28, throw them away immediately. Clean any surfaces they may have touched to reduce the risk of spreading the bacteria.