FDA Issues Urgent Alert Over Salmonella-Contaminated Tomatoes in Three Southern States

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a critical health warning regarding a recall of tomatoes contaminated with Salmonella in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. This recall has been elevated to the highest alert level, Class I, indicating that consumption of these tomatoes could cause severe health consequences or even death.

The affected tomatoes were distributed under the H&C Farms label between April 23 and 28 and were available in various package sizes, from small three-packs to 25-pound boxes. The initial voluntary recall took place in early May by Williams Farms Repack, a South Carolina-based company, with no reported illnesses at that time. However, recent assessments by the FDA suggest that the risk has become more serious.

While it is unlikely that consumers will find fresh tomatoes from this batch on store shelves, the bacteria Salmonella can survive in dry environments for weeks and persist in wet or frozen states for months, thereby posing a potential ongoing threat if the tomatoes are stored improperly. The precise source of the contamination remains under investigation, and both Williams Farms Repack and H&C Farms have declined to comment.

Salmonella bacteria can cause food poisoning, leading to symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, and severe abdominal pain, which can last for several days. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over a million Americans get infected annually, with more than 400 fatalities. Vulnerable groups, including young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals, are at higher risk, but health officials recommend that everyone exercise caution.

Officials advise consumers to remain vigilant and avoid eating any tomatoes from the recalled batch. For more detailed information about salmonella and food safety, the Mayo Clinic offers comprehensive guidance.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-fda-issues-highest-tomato-recall.html