Tomato Trouble: Multi-State Recall Issued Over Salmonella Concerns

The recall was issued by Ray & Mascari Inc., an Indianapolis-based company, after concerns about potential Salmonella contamination. The tomatoes in question are:

• Product: 4-count Vine Ripe Tomatoes
• Packaging: Sold in clear 20-ounce plastic clamshell containers
• UPC Code: 7 96553 20062 1
• Lot Numbers: RM250424 15250B and RM250427 15250B
• Distributed to: Gordon Food Service (GFS) Stores
• States Affected: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin

This recall follows a notification from the grower, Hanshaw & Capling Farms in Florida, which flagged a possible Salmonella risk at their packing facility. While no illnesses have been reported so far, the company acted swiftly to remove potentially unsafe products from the market — a move that aligns with responsible food safety practices.

You’ve probably heard of Salmonella, but what does it actually do?

Salmonella is a harmful bacterium that causes salmonellosis, an infection that can result in symptoms like:

• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Stomach Cramps
• Nausea and Vomiting

These symptoms typically appear 6 to 72 hours after exposure and can last 4 to 7 days. While most healthy people recover without treatment, the illness can be life-threatening for:

• Young Children
• Older Adults
• People with weakened immune systems

In rare cases, the infection can spread beyond the intestines and cause serious complications like bloodstream infections, which require urgent medical care.

That’s why preventing Salmonella in the food supply is critical.

If you purchased tomatoes from a GFS Store recently, here’s what you need to do:

1. Check the Packaging: Look for the UPC code and lot lot numbers mentioned above. If they match, don’t take any chances.
   
2. Do Not Eat the Product: Even if the tomatoes look fresh and smell fine, they could still carry harmful bacteria.
3. Dispose of them Properly: Throw them away in a secure trash bag to avoid others coming into contact with them. Do not compost recalled produce.
4. Clean Surfaces: Wash any surfaces or containers the tomatoes touched using hot, soapy water to prevent cross-contamination.

This recall highlights how vulnerable even fresh, seemingly healthy foods can be to microbial contamination. It also emphasizes the importance of:

• Traceability in the food supply chain
• Transparent communication between farms, processors, and retailers
• Prompt action when potential hazards are identified

At The Food Court by DSG, we believe that food safety is not optional — it's essential. Whether you’re a home cook, a restaurant owner, or a supplier, staying informed about recalls like this one helps protect the entire community.