FDA Widens Cantaloupe Recall Due to Surge in Salmonella Cases

The recall of cantaloupes in the United States has been extended to encompass three additional brands, following a rapid escalation in salmonella infections over the past week.

The outbreak has affected approximately 100 individuals across 32 states, with the most significant number of cases reported in Arizona, Missouri, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Ohio. In Minnesota, two fatalities have been linked to the outbreak, and there are 45 hospitalizations nationwide.

Initially, the recall by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration included Malichita whole cantaloupes, Vinyard pre-cut cantaloupes, and ALDI’s whole and pre-cut fruit products. As of Friday, this list has been expanded to include Rudy whole cantaloupes, as well as pre-cut cantaloupes from the Freshness Guaranteed and RaceTrac brands.

Public health authorities advise discarding any of the recalled fruits and thoroughly cleaning surfaces that have come into contact with them using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.

Symptoms of salmonella infection, such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically manifest within six hours to six days after eating the contaminated food. The illness usually lasts between four to seven days. Particularly at risk are children, individuals over 65, and those with compromised immune systems, who may experience severe symptoms necessitating medical attention or hospitalization.

Report contribution by AP Health Writer JoNel Aleccia.

This report is from The Big Big News Health and Science Department, which is funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP maintains full editorial control over all its content.