The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated a tomato recall affecting Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina to its most serious level, warning consumers of the potential for severe illness or death due to salmonella contamination. The recall, which initially began in early May 2025, now carries a Class I designation, indicating a significant health risk associated with the consumption of the implicated products.
The contaminated tomatoes were distributed by Williams Farms Repack LLC, based in Lodge, South Carolina, under the H&C Farms label. These tomatoes were sold to wholesalers and distributors between April 23 and April 28, 2025, and came in various packaging sizes, ranging from small three-count trays to large 25-pound boxes.
Specifically, the recalled products include 5x6 tomatoes (lot code R4467), 6x6 tomatoes (lot codes R4467 and R4470), combo 25-pound boxes (R4467), 4x4 and 4x5 two-layer packs (R4467), 60-count two-layer packs (R4467), 60-count 18-pound loose tomatoes (R4467 and R4470), XL 18-pound loose tomatoes (R4467), and 3-count trays (R4467). These products were distributed across the three southern states and may still be found in some supply chains or consumer homes.
Salmonella, the bacteria implicated in this recall, is a serious public health concern. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it causes over one million illnesses and more than 400 deaths annually in the United States. The infection can be particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of salmonella infection typically appear between 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and include fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. While most healthy individuals recover without treatment, severe cases can lead to hospitalization and complications such as arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis. Pregnant women are urged to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop.
What makes this recall especially concerning is the persistence of salmonella bacteria in various environments. The FDA notes that freezing and drying do not kill salmonella; the bacteria can survive for several weeks in dry environments and for months in wet or frozen conditions. This means that even tomatoes frozen by consumers could still pose a health risk.
As of the recall announcement, no illnesses or deaths have been reported in connection with these tomatoes. However, the FDA stresses that the risk is significant enough to warrant the highest level of recall. Consumers who have purchased these tomatoes are strongly urged not to consume them. Instead, they should return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund or discard them safely.
The FDA has provided contact information for consumers with questions or concerns. Jason Breland can be reached at 843-866-7707 or 843-599-5154, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In addition to this recall, other related food safety alerts have surfaced recently. Ray & Mascari Inc. voluntarily recalled four-packs of Vine Ripe tomatoes after notification from Hanshaw & Caping Farms in Immokalee, Florida, about potential salmonella contamination. These tomatoes were sold in multiple states including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. No illnesses have been reported from this batch.
Moreover, cucumbers distributed by Florida-based Bedner Growers, Inc. were recalled due to a salmonella outbreak linked to 18 states, resulting in 45 illnesses and 16 hospitalizations, though no deaths have been reported. These cucumbers were distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. from April 29 to May 19, 2025.
The FDA’s elevated warning about the H&C Farms tomatoes underscores the ongoing challenges in ensuring food safety in the nation’s supply chains. While the exact source of the contamination remains unknown, the agency continues to monitor the situation closely and urges consumers to exercise caution.
Salmonella contamination is a persistent threat in produce, and this recall highlights the importance of vigilance among both distributors and consumers. The FDA’s swift action in upgrading the recall to Class I reflects the seriousness of the risk and the agency’s commitment to protecting public health.
Consumers are reminded that even if they feel healthy, consuming contaminated tomatoes could still lead to illness, and anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with salmonella infection after consuming these products should seek medical advice promptly and inform their healthcare providers about the potential exposure.
As the FDA continues its investigations, the public’s cooperation in adhering to the recall is crucial to preventing any outbreaks. Returning or discarding the affected tomatoes is the safest course of action, even if the products have been frozen or stored for some time.
Food safety experts emphasize that while recalls can be unsettling, they are vital tools in preventing widespread illness and protecting vulnerable populations. This latest recall serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous monitoring, prompt reporting, and consumer awareness in the complex food distribution network.
The FDA’s ongoing efforts, together with cooperation from producers like Williams Farms Repack and retailers, aim to minimize the impact of such contamination events. Meanwhile, consumers should stay informed through official channels and heed all safety advisories related to food products.
