FDA warns of tomatoe-bornes almonellosis

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is alerting American consumers that a salmonellosis outbreak appears to be linked to consumption of certain types of raw red tomatoes and products containing raw red tomatoes. The bacteria causing the illnesses are Salmonella serotype Saintpaul, an uncommon type of Salmonella. The specific type and source of tomatoes are under investigation. Preliminary data suggest, thiugh, that raw red plum, raw red Roma, or raw round red tomatoes are the cause. At this time, consumers should limit their tomato consumption to tomatoes that have not been implicated in the outbreak. These include cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, tomatoes sold with the vine still attached, and tomatoes grown at home. Consumers who are unsure of where the tomatoes are from that they  have in their home are encouraged to contact the store or place of  purchase for that information. Consumers should also be aware that raw tomatoes are often used in  the preparation of fresh salsa, guacamole, and pico de gallo, are  part of fillings for tortillas, and are used in other dishes.

Restaurants, grocery stores, and food service operators have been advised by the FDA not to offer for sale or service raw red plum, Roma, or red tomatoes and products made from these types of tomatoes unless they are from one of the areas listed above. Since mid April, there have been 145 reported cases of salmonellosis in the United States caused by Salmonella Saintpaul, an uncommon form of  Salmonella.  At least twenty-three hospitalizations have been reported.