Eggs, Whole Cantaloupe Recalled for Salmonella Risk

FSIS Issues Nationwide Recall After Outbreaks

The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a nationwide recall of eggs and whole cantaloupes due to potential Salmonella contamination. The recall affects eggs from Rose Acre Farms and whole cantaloupes from whole cantaloupes from Rio Queen Cantaloupes, LLC.

Affected Products

• Rose Acre Farms eggs (all varieties, including cage-free, organic, and free-range)
• Rio Queen Cantaloupes whole cantaloupes (all sizes and varieties)

Recall Reason

The recall was issued after an investigation by the FSIS linked the contaminated eggs and cantaloupes to outbreaks of Salmonella in several states. Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious illness, including diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal cramps.

Outbreak Details

As of the recall date, there have been 50 reported cases of Salmonella linked to the contaminated eggs. The majority of cases have occurred in the Midwest, but cases have also been reported in other parts of the country. No illnesses have been reported in connection with the recalled cantaloupes.

Consumer Actions

Consumers who have purchased the recalled eggs or cantaloupes should not consume them. The eggs should be discarded or returned to the store where they were purchased for a full refund. The cantaloupes should be discarded or returned to the store where they were purchased for a full refund.

Symptoms of Salmonella

Symptoms of Salmonella infection typically develop 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food. Symptoms can include:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Abdominal cramps
• Headache
• Fatigue

Preventing Salmonella Infection

Consumers can help prevent Salmonella infection by following these tips:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
• Cook eggs thoroughly until the yolk and white are firm.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
• Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from other foods.
• Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.

More Information

For more information about the recall, please visit the FSIS website at https://www.fsis.usda.gov/. For more information about Salmonella infection, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website at https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/.