A major recall is underway after vine-ripened tomatoes sold in plastic clamshells were flagged for possible salmonella contamination. Ray & Mascari Inc., based in Indiana, has recalled its 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes sold through Gordon Food Service Stores in the following states:
Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
The warning comes after the supplier, Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Florida, reported a possible salmonella issue in its facility. The recalled tomatoes are labeled VINE RIPE TOMATOES, packed by Ray & Mascari Inc. (Indianapolis, IN 46204), with UPC 7 96553 20062 1. No illnesses have been reported yet. Still, the FDA urges consumers to discard the product immediately.
Salmonella can cause serious illness, especially in young children, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include bloody diarrhea, high fever, vomiting, and dehydration. They often appear within 6 hours to 6 days of exposure and may require hospitalization.
Avoid the Risk: Grow Your Own
Food safety scares like this are a growing concern, but one solution is simple: grow your own tomatoes. With just a few plants in containers or raised beds, you can enjoy safer, fresher, chemical-free tomatoes all season long. Homegrown tomatoes eliminate the risk of contamination from large-scale processing and offer better flavor and peace of mind.
