In a significant food safety alert, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of certain tomato products due to potential Salmonella contamination. This recall, affecting consumers across 14 states, has been initiated by Ray & Mascari Inc. of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Williams Farms Repack LLC.
The tomatoes in question, specifically 4-count vine-ripened tomatoes packaged in clamshell containers, were sold primarily through Gordon Food Service stores in states including Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. These tomatoes, labeled as "Vine Ripe Tomatoes," have UPC numbers of 7 96553 20062 1 and lot numbers RM250424 15250B or RM250427 15250B.
According to the FDA, the recall was prompted after Hanshaw & Capling Farms, the supplier from Immokalee, Florida, reported the possible presence of Salmonella in their facility. While no illnesses have yet been reported in connection with this recall, consumers are advised to exercise caution.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause severe and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include diarrhea (which may be bloody), fever, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms can manifest anywhere from six hours to six days after exposure and typically last between four to seven days, as noted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In addition to Ray & Mascari Inc.'s recall, Williams Farms Repack LLC has also issued a recall for various tomato products distributed between April 23 and April 28, 2025. The affected products from Williams Farms include several packaging formats, such as 5x6 25lb H&C Farms label and 60ct trays, with specific lot codes R4467 and R4470. The states impacted by this recall include Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
For consumers who might have purchased these tomatoes, the FDA recommends not consuming the products and instead returning them to the store for a full refund or disposing of them safely. Parents are particularly urged to monitor their children for any symptoms of Salmonella infection, as even a small amount can lead to serious health issues.
In light of this recall, health experts emphasize the importance of food safety practices at home. To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, consumers are advised to wash all produce thoroughly before consumption, sanitize cutting boards and utensils after preparing raw fruits and vegetables, and wash hands with soap and water after handling potentially contaminated food.
The FDA is closely monitoring the situation and encourages consumers to stay informed about food safety alerts. For further information, consumers can contact Ray & Mascari Inc. at 317-637-0234, available Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., or Williams Farms Repack LLC at 843-866-7707 or 843-599-5154, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
As of now, no illnesses have been linked to the recalled tomatoes, but the potential risk remains, especially for young children and those with compromised immune systems. The CDC estimates that Salmonella bacteria cause over 1 million infections in the U.S. each year, often linked to food products.
Consumers are encouraged to check their refrigerators and pantries for the recalled tomato products, and to take appropriate action to ensure their safety and that of their families. The FDA continues to provide updates on this and other food safety concerns, highlighting the importance of vigilance in food consumption.
