The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has escalated a tomato recall to its most severe warning level, Class 1, due to potential contamination with salmonella bacteria, which can cause serious illness or death.
This recall affects tomatoes distributed by Williams Farms Repack LLC, sourced from H&C Farms, and sold in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina between April 23 and 28, 2025.
Details of the Recall
The recalled tomatoes include various packaging sizes such as 5×6 and 6×6 25-pound boxes, combo 25-pound boxes, 4×4 and 4×5 two-layer packs, 60-count two-layer packs, 60-count 18-pound loose tomatoes, XL 18-pound loose tomatoes, and 3-count trays with UPC# 0 33383 65504 8. All recalled products bear lot codes R4467 or R4470.
Another recall involving Ray & Mascari tomatoes, packaged in clamshell containers and distributed in multiple states including Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan, was also elevated to Class 1 earlier in May due to salmonella risk.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., capable of surviving for weeks in dry environments and months in moist conditions such as freezers.
Infection symptoms typically appear 6 hours to 6 days after exposure and include fever, diarrhea (which may contain blood or mucus), nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and headache. While many recover without treatment, young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems face higher risks of severe illness or death.
Consumer Guidance
Consumers who have purchased the recalled tomatoes are strongly advised not to consume them. The FDA recommends discarding the products or returning them to the place of purchase for a full refund. No illnesses have been reported so far in connection with these recalled tomatoes.
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