The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has expanded a nationwide recall of pre-cut tomatoes and tomato-based products after a multistate salmonella outbreak sickened at least 162 people, hospitalizing 54.
The source? Contaminated diced tomatoes distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, based in Florida.
As of June 2, the outbreak has spanned 11 states, with New York and New Jersey reporting the highest number of illnesses.
The FDA and CDC are urging consumers to check their refrigerators immediately and avoid consuming the affected products, which were widely distributed to grocery stores, cafeterias, and meal services.
Which Products Are Recalled?
The recall includes 5-pound containers of “Fresh Start” diced tomatoes distributed to foodservice operators—not directly to individual consumers.
However, these tomatoes may have been used in salads, sandwiches, and other prepackaged meals available to the public.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Brand: Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc.
- Product: Diced tomatoes in 5-lb containers
- Distributed to: Restaurants, cafeterias, and institutional kitchens
- Recalled Due To: Contamination with Salmonella Africana
Consumers are advised to avoid eating any food items made with diced tomatoes unless they can confirm the source is not tied to the recall.
Where Have Illnesses Been Reported?
As of the latest update, the salmonella outbreak has been confirmed in:
- New York
- New Jersey
- Connecticut
- Pennsylvania
- Massachusetts
- Virginia
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Georgia
- Florida
- Illinois
Symptoms to Watch For
Salmonella can cause serious and potentially fatal infections, especially in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms usually begin 6 hours to 6 days after infection and may include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
If you’ve consumed a product containing tomatoes in the past week and are experiencing symptoms, health officials recommend contacting your doctor immediately.
FDA Investigation Ongoing
The FDA has deployed investigators to Fresh Start Produce Sales’ facility to determine how the contamination occurred.
“We’re tracing the supply chain and working with state partners to identify additional risks,” the agency said in a statement.
No deaths have been reported, but with the number of cases rising, public health experts expect the recall to expand further in the coming days.
How to Stay Safe
The FDA recommends the following steps:
- Do not consume or serve any pre-cut tomatoes from unknown sources.
- If you operate a restaurant or kitchen, check your inventory and discard any Fresh Start products.
- Wash any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the affected tomatoes.
- Monitor for symptoms if you’ve recently eaten tomato-based meals away from home.
📌 Stay Updated: The FDA’s recall list is being updated as new information becomes available.
📢 Tip: When in doubt, throw it out.
– Follow FingerLakes1.com’s Product Recall Coverage for the latest.
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