The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a Class I recall for tomatoes sold by Williams Farms Repack LLC, and Ray & Mascari Inc., due to concerns surrounding possible Salmonella contamination. Class I states that this is the most serious type of recall by the FDA, indicating a substantial health risk to consumers. Consumers that have purchased tomatoes from these distributors are advised to each their tomatoes immediately and take appropriate action.
Affected Product, Distribution Details and Affected Area
The recall affects various different tomato products sold from both distributors. All consumers in the affected states should carefully read the information below to keep you healthy and safe.
Williams Farms Repack LLC
- Brands: Williams Farms Repack, H&C Farms
- Distribution Dates: April 23–28, 2025
- Affected States: Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina
- Lot Codes: R4467, R4470
- Packaging: Various, including 25lb and 18lb boxes, and 3-count trays with UPC 0 33383 65504 8
Ray & Mascari Inc.
- Product: 4-count Vine Ripe Tomatoes
- Distribution Dates: Late April 2025
- Affected States: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Wisconsin
- Lot Numbers: RM250424 15250B, RM250427 15250B
- Packaging: 20 oz. plastic clamshell containers with UPC 7 96553 20062 1
Consumers who purchased tomatoes in these states should check the packaging and lot codes before consuming them.
The Risks of Salmonella
Salmonella can be very serious for those who consume food contaminated with it, especially children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Symptoms can arise as soon as six hours to six days after exposure, including:
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
In severe cases the infection can go from the intestines to the bloodstream and other parts of the body, making this a situation that requires medical attention right away.
Advice to Any Consumers Affected
To protect yourself, the FDA now recommends to anyone who may have eaten tomatoes, to immediately do the following:
- Look at your tomatoes - check to see if they match the packaging and lot number listed above.
- Throw away or return to the store for a full refund - If your tomatoes are part of the recall - discard them or return them to the store.
- Watch for potential health issues - if you, or anyone in your family, consumed the tomatoes and then starts to feel symptoms of a Salmonella infection, seek medical care as soon as you can. Please tell your healthcare provider you suspected a Salmonella exposure, which can help your providers treat your specific illness.
- Check for updates - keep an eye on announcements by the FDA for any updates or additions to the recall.
Notice About Food Safety
The FDA is reminding consumers to exercise food safety caution in the handling and preparation of fresh produce. Washing produce thoroughly and preventing cross-contamination are easy to do and important protective measures against foodborne illnesses.
To read more about the recall, visit the FDA official website or reach out to your local health authorities.
Image Source: Health
