This spring, a serious health alert has been issued concerning tomatoes distributed in three U.S. states, following fears of salmonella contamination. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated its warning to a Class I recall—the agency's highest level—indicating that consuming these tomatoes could cause severe illness or even death.
The affected tomatoes, labeled under "H&C Farms" and distributed by Williams Farms Repack LLC, were shipped between April 23 and April 28, 2025, to stores in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. They were sold in various packaging sizes, ranging from small three-count trays to large 25-pound boxes, as well as 60-count two-layer boxes. The recall was first announced voluntarily by Williams Farms Repack on May 2, but the FDA upgraded the alert to a Class I recall on May 28, underscoring the potential danger.
According to the FDA, the salmonella bacteria can survive for weeks in dry environments and months in wet ones. Importantly, freezing or drying the tomatoes does not eliminate the bacteria, meaning that even frozen or home-canned tomatoes from the affected batches could pose a risk. This has prompted officials to urge consumers to check their pantries and freezers carefully and to discard any tomatoes matching the recalled products.
Consumers are advised to look out for specific lot codes and packaging details to identify the recalled products. These include lot codes R4467 and R4470, and packaging types such as 5x6 25-pound boxes, 6x6 25-pound boxes, combo 25-pound boxes, 4x4 and 4x5 two-layer boxes, 60-count two-layer boxes, 60-count 18-pound loose packages, and XL 18-pound loose packages. The UPC code 0 33383 65504 8 is also associated with the recalled tomatoes.
While no illnesses or deaths have been reported so far, federal health officials stress the importance of caution. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that salmonella infection symptoms typically appear within 12 to 72 hours after consumption and include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms can be particularly dangerous for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems, who may experience severe or even fatal infections.
"The FDA is urging anyone who bought the recalled tomatoes not to eat them and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund, or simply discard the affected items," said the agency. They also advise that consumers who have eaten the tomatoes and are experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
The recall has caused concern among consumers in the affected states, especially since the specific source of contamination remains under investigation. Williams Farms Repack LLC, based in Lodge, South Carolina, has been cooperating with federal officials throughout the recall process.
Experts emphasize that salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States and that contaminated produce outbreaks are taken very seriously. The bacteria's resilience in various environments means that contaminated food can remain hazardous long after purchase.
Given that the tomatoes were distributed to numerous grocery stores across Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, pinpointing every affected retailer has proven difficult. As a result, consumers are encouraged to err on the side of caution and avoid consuming any tomatoes that might be linked to the recall, even if they were frozen or canned at home.
For those with questions or concerns about the recall, the FDA has provided contact information for Jason Breland, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST at 843-866-7707 or 843-599-5154.
This recall follows a rocky start to the summer produce season, which has also seen recalls of other items like cucumbers. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring food safety and the importance of vigilance among consumers and retailers alike.
As investigations continue, federal agencies remain committed to protecting public health and preventing further exposure to contaminated products. The situation underscores the critical role of monitoring, swift response, and clear communication in managing foodborne illness risks.