Vine-Ripe Tomatoes recalled in 11 States over Salmonella concerns
A routine safety check turned into a nationwide alert as vine-ripe tomatoes from Indiana were pulled off shelves due to possible salmonella contamination—prompting urgent warnings from health officials and renewed calls for vigilance in food safety.
Ray & Mascari Inc., an Indianapolis-based company, has issued a recall for its "4-Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes" due to potential salmonella contamination. These tomatoes were distributed through Gordon Food Service Stores across 11 states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. The recall was initiated after Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Immokalee, Florida, which supplied the tomatoes, reported possible salmonella presence in their facility.
Salmonella infection can lead to serious health issues, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, the infection can become more severe, leading to conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis, or arthritis. Consumers are advised to discard the affected products and avoid consumption.
Vine Ripe Tomatoes recalled for Salmonella risk: check lot numbers
The recalled tomatoes are packaged in plastic clamshell containers, each holding four tomatoes, labeled "VINE RIPE TOMATOES" and marked with "Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc., Indianapolis, IN 46204." The master cases containing these clamshells bear lot numbers RM250424 15250B or RM250427 15250B. As of now, no illnesses related to this recall have been reported.
Ray & Mascari Inc. has notified all customers who received the recalled lots, providing them with information to further contact their customers and distribution centers with recall instructions. The company emphasizes the importance of discarding the product to prevent any potential health risks. Consumers with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact Ray & Mascari Inc. during normal business hours. According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), product recalls like this one are shared as a public service, noting: “FDA does not endorse either the product or the company,” following Williams Farms Repack LLC’s tomato recall due to Salmonella concerns.
FDA and growers urge consumers to discard recalled Tomatoes over Salmonella concerns
This recall underscores the critical importance of food safety and the need for prompt action when potential contamination is identified. Both Ray & Mascari Inc. and Hanshaw & Capling Farms are cooperating fully with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure consumer safety. The FDA continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary.
Williams Farms Repack LLC issues a recall of multiple tomato sizes and labels, including H&C Farms, over potential Salmonella contamination—consumers urged to check packaging and discard affected products. Photo: U.S. Food & Drug Administration/FDA
Consumers are urged to check their purchases and discard any products matching the described packaging and lot numbers. Staying informed about food recalls and adhering to safety advisories are essential steps in protecting public health. For more information, visit the FDA's official website or contact Ray & Mascari Inc. directly.
