The Food and Drug Administration has given the highest risk level to a tomato recall in three states.
The tomatoes from Williams Farms Repack LLC, recalled in early May, could be contaminated with Salmonella, bacteria that can cause severe foodborne illness.
The recall affects whole tomatoes sold under the brands Williams Farms Repack and H&C Farms and packaged in nine different sizes:
- 5×6, 25 lbs; lot code: R4467
- 6×6, 25 lbs; lot codes: R4467 and R4470
- Combo, 25 lbs; lot code: R4467
- 4×4, 2 layer; lot code: R4467
- 4×5, 2 layer; lot code: R4467
- 60 count, 2 layer; lot code: R4467
- 60 count, 18 lbs, loose; lot code: R4467 and R4470
- XL, 18 lbs, loose; lot code: R4467
- 3 count trays; UPC: 0 33383 65504 8; lot code: R4467
FDA
The recalled tomatoes were sent to wholesalers and distributors in the following states:
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
On May 28, the FDA gave the tomato recall a Class I risk level, meaning there is a “reasonable probability” that eating the tomatoes “will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.”
Salmonella infection commonly causes watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.
However, some groups—young children, frail or elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems—may experience severe, potentially fatal infections.
Symptoms of severe Salmonella infection include:
- Diarrhea or vomiting lasting more than two days
- Bloody poop (including diarrhea) or pee
- A fever higher than 102°F
- Signs of dehydration, such as very dark pee and feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Long-term complications, including infections that spread to other parts of the body
If you have the recalled tomatoes, or you’re not sure where your tomatoes came from, throw them away and monitor for signs of Salmonella infection.
Seek medical attention immediately if you or a loved one experiences symptoms of severe Salmonella infection listed above.
