Latest news with #Ray&MascariInc
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Tomato recall elevated by FDA due to heightened risk of illness and death
An ongoing tomato recall has been elevated by the FDA after it found the contamination could lead to death. The initial voluntary recall of H&C Farms Label tomatoes was announced at the beginning of May when Williams Farms Repack LLC distributed the potentially contaminated tomatoes to wholesalers in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. Sold in different-sized packages, ranging from three-packs to 25-pound bags, the tomatoes were distributed between April 23 and 28, according to the FDA's notice. No illnesses were reported at the time. The New York Times reported that the FDA upgraded the recall last week to a Class I, described as 'a situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.' At this time, the FDA doesn't expect that customers will come into contact with fresh tomatoes from the contaminated batch. However, customers may have frozen the tomatoes for future consumption. Salmonella bacteria can survive for weeks in a wet environment like a freezer. Customers are urged to throw away any affected tomatoes immediately. The source of the contamination is not known. The larger tomato recall has spanned several distributors. Ray & Mascari Inc, announced the recall of its four packs of Vine Ripe tomatoes on May 2, followed by the FDA's notice the next day. The company was notified by Hanshaw & Caping Farms in Immokalee, Florida, of the potential salmonella contamination, prompting the recall. Potentially affected tomatoes were packaged in plastic cartons and had a VINE RIPE TOMATOES label that read "Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc." The tomatoes were shipped to and sold by Gordon Food Service Stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. No illnesses have been reported. Customers in possession of the affected tomatoes are urged to throw them out, as salmonella can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Meanwhile, cucumbers have also been recalled after a salmonella outbreak tied to 18 states left 45 people ill, according to an update from NBC News. Sixteen people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported. Florida-based Bedner Growers, Inc. recalled the vegetables distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales, Inc. from April 29 to May 19.
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
12 Biggest Tomato Recalls In History
Tomatoes are a versatile addition to any kitchen. The delicious produce comes in all shapes and sizes, ensuring there is a perfect variety for almost any recipe. From classic kitchen staples like tomato sauce to fresh preparations like salad, tomatoes infuse any dish with mouth-watering flavor. They're also packed with vitamin C, and potassium and have been proven to help lower inflammation and the risk of heart disease — so they're not just delicious, but also nutritious. And while it's undeniable that tomatoes are good for you, like all food, they are sometimes the subject of a recall that can lead to adverse health effects. Form contamination with bacteria that cause food-borne illnesses to exposure to foreign bodies like plastic, tomato products have been subject to some major recalls in recent history. From fresh tomatoes of all shapes and sizes to canned diced tomatoes to less conventional tomato products like bloody mary mix, the recalls have run the gamut of tomato products. Read more: 14 Canned Tomato Brands, Ranked Worst To Best In May 2025, tomatoes were recalled in 14 different states due to exposure to a potentially fatal bacterium: Salmonella. The widespread recall was the result of two different distributors shipping the potentially contaminated tomatoes, Williams Farms Repack and Ray & Mascari Inc. The FDA labeled both recalls as Class I, their highest risk category, which indicates use of or exposure to the item may cause serious adverse health consequences or death. The Williams Farms Repack recall impacted nine different variations of its prepackaged tomatoes, distributed between April 23 and April 28 to Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The Ray & Mascari Inc. recall involved its four-packs of vine-ripened tomatoes packaged in clamshell containers sold by Gordon Food Service Stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. Though salmonella is usually associated with raw or undercooked poultry and eggs, it can contaminate other foods, too, and cause abdominal cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. Though most healthy people recover quickly, it can lead to severe dehydration or other complications that require medical attention. Luckily, as of mid-May 2025, no illnesses tied to this recall had been reported. In early August of 2023, Ingomar Packing Co. announced a voluntary recall of its canned diced tomatoes (just one of many types of canned tomatoes). This California-based "globally recognized ... premium supplier of industrial tomato products" unfortunately distributed tomatoes that had been exposed to foreign materials, with potential plastic pieces in some of the 55-gallon drums of its 1/2″ diced tomatoes and ¾" diced tomatoes. The potentially contaminated tomatoes were distributed to California and Washington state in the United States, and also internationally to Japan. Though the Class II recall only impacted two products, it resulted in the recall of 4,038 drums, or a whopping 1,855,040 pounds of II recalls are the FDA's second-most serious, indicating a situation where exposure to a tainted product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences (with a low chance of serious health risks). No incidents or illnesses were ever reported as a result of this recall. Fresh and canned tomatoes aren't the only products that have been subject to recalls. In December 2024, Borsari Food Co. announced a voluntary recall another tomato based product: bloody mary mix. This popular mixer is ideal for a fast and convenient cocktail, and it's easy to put your own twist to take store-bought bloody mary mix to the next level. Unfortunately this particular product, which contains soy and anchovies, did not declare these common allergens on the label, leading to the Class II recall due to the labeling issue. It's estimated that about 1% of the population has a fish or anchovy allergy. Though soy is a more common allergy in children, adults can also suffer from this allergy. Both fish and soy are in the top 10 most common allergies in the United States, making this mislabeling particularly concerning. The problem was first uncovered during an inspection by the New York State Department of Agriculture because past and future bottles of the mix both clearly declared the allergens. The 32-ounce bottles were distributed within 100 miles of Jamestown, New York, and also through the company's website, leading to a recall across 25 states. No illnesses were ever reported. In December 2023, Global Vegetable Corp announced a nationwide recall of its 5-pound bags of Aviator sun-dried tomato halves because it was possible they contained undeclared sulfites. Sulfites are a common food additive that contains sulfur iron, and they help to prevent bacterial growth and also help prevent foods from browning. While they are not uncommon in packaged foods (like sun-dried tomatoes), the issue in this case was that they were not disclosed. Some people have sulfite allergies that can cause reactions similar to those of food allergies, leading to hives, digestive issues, or even, in extreme cases, anaphylactic shock. Like with food allergies, the best treatment for this ailment is to avoid the sulfites to prevent a reaction. The recall was discovered during routine sampling by the New York State Department of Agriculture after food inspectors discovered the lab analysis did not match the product packaging; the presence of sulfites had not been detected in the test but not disclosed. Luckily, no illnesses or allergic reactions were ever reported during the recall. On November 15, 2020, the FDA announced a recall of Tucson Tamale Wholesale Co.'s frozen, ready-to-eat chicken and pork tamale products. The diced tomatoes used in the tamale sauce may have been contaminated with pieces of hard plastic that posed a choking hazard or could cause damage to teeth and gums. The Arizona-based company first discovered the issue when it found hard pieces of plastic in the cans of diced tomatoes provided by its ingredient supplier. That supplier then initiated a recall with the FDA. The brand's tamales, which are inspired by the founders' family recipes and rethought with clean, healthy ingredients, are handmade and offered in eight different varieties. With a strong emphasis on top-quality ingredients and a commitment to being gluten- and allergy-free, the tamales seem to be well-liked by consumers with predominantly positive reviews — though nothing can compare to homemade, authentic Mexican tamales. Though the recall is still technically considered active by the FDA as of May 2025, it seems that no injuries were ever reported. In mid-November 2020, The Neil Jones Food Company issued a voluntary recall of its petite diced tomatoes in tomato puree due to the possible presence of hard plastic pieces. The Class II recall initiated a return of 104 cases (or 665 pounds) of the product to prevent choking, dental damage, or other injuries associated with the plastic contamination. The tomatoes, which had been distributed across Arizona and Utah, were produced under Sysco's Arrezzio brand. With a focus on "Italian staples that will enhance and transform any menu with robust flavors inspired by the very best of Italy," Arrezzio produces a range of products and its catalogue includes pizza dough, dried pasta, olive oil and vinegar, meats and cheeses, and, of course, canned tomatoes (perfect for easy canned tomato hacks). Though it offers a wide range of products, it seems that Arrezzio was involved in only one other recent recall of its cooked beef pizza topping. In April 2019, Conagra Brands announced that it was recalling the 6-ounce cans of its Hunt's Tomato Paste No Salt Added due to the possibility of mold. The voluntary recall impacted only a small amount of the product, with a single UPC with a best-by date of October 16, 2020, as part of the voluntary recall. The brand was first made aware of the problem after receiving calls directly from customers about the moldy tomato paste. The company claimed that the mold was likely caused by damage to the cans during the canning process. Though not all mold is dangerous to ingest, some molds can be toxic, cause respiratory problems, or lead to allergic reactions. Conagra and the FDA urged consumers to throw out any of the tainted tomato paste or return it to the store where it was purchased for a refund to avoid any adverse side effects. In May 2017, California Sun Dry Foods announced a recall of its sun-dried tomato pesto due to mislabeling. The back of the jar did not clearly declare two common allergens: milk and almonds. Tree nut allergies — including almonds — are one of the most common, with some data suggesting that about 1% of the population suffers from this allergy. Though a milk allergy is more common in children than adults, like all allergies, it can lead to severe allergic reactions when exposed. An employee was the first to discover the discrepancy when filling a display case, alerting the company to the error. The front of the jar was labeled correctly, but the backs of some jars mistakenly had the label for California Sun Dry Foods' other product, sun-dried tomato garlic. The nationwide, voluntary recall impacted stores across the country, requiring them to pull the impacted UPC number from shelves to avoid unintentional allergy exposure. In 2013, Hunts was subject to another tomato recall, this time for its canned tomato sauce. On January 23, 2013, Conagra Foods announced a voluntary recall of its 8-ounce Hunt's Tomato Sauce and Hunt's Tomato Sauce No Salt Added products due to a defect in the inner lining of the cans. The products were distributed across 12 states, mostly in the western U.S. but also including Hawaii. This recall, however, luckily had no impact on food safety. Instead, the defect could lead cans to swell and splash sauce when opened, creating a bit of a mess. It wouldn't, however, lead to food-borne illnesses or similar issues that are often the cause of widespread product recalls. The product impacted only a few products with specific best-by dates for both the tomato sauce and no-salt-added tomato sauce, accounting for just a fraction of Hunts' wide range of canned products. Those who were concerned could return their canned goods to the store where they were purchased — or opt to make homemade tomato sauce instead. In July 2012, Combs Produce recalled the Cross Valley Farms and Packer Label whole tomatoes sent to two Texas distribution centers because of potential E. coli contamination. The tainted tomatoes were distributed over the course of a few weeks between June 27 and July 7, leading to the Class I recall of two lot codes. A Class I FDA recall denotes that the recalled product poses the highest risk, indicating that there is a reasonable probability that consuming or using the product will lead to serious health consequences — or, in extreme cases, even death. Though just the equipment (and not the tomatoes themselves) tested positive for E. coli, the presence of this bacterium could still have potentially transferred to the produce and led to severe food-borne illness. Symptoms of an E. coli infection include stomach pain, digestive upset, and in extreme cases, kidney damage or serious illness. E. coli has also been the culprit in a number of fast food chain food poisoning outbreaks over the years. A widespread grape tomato recall (not to be confused with cherry tomatoes) took place in April of 2011, impacting consumers across the country. First, on April 11, Six L's Packing recalled a specific lot of its grape tomatoes because they were possibly contaminated with salmonella. This recall had a cascading impact, setting off a chain of recalls from other companies and products using the contaminated tomatoes. First, Taylor Farms Pacific Inc. then recalled several of its ready-made salad kits a few days later. This recall affected 22,000 pounds of salad including their chef, Cobb, and BLT salad varieties. Mastronardi Produce of Ontario, Northeast Products Inc. of Plainville, CT, Mann Packing Co. Inc. of California, and Del Monte Fresh Produce of Florida all followed suit over the course of the next few days, issuing recalls for products that contained the potentially tainted grape tomatoes. Major retailers like Safeway and Trader Joe's also issued recalls for tomato products because these products were supplied by some of the same distributors. May 2008 was witness to one of the largest recalls in U.S. history. The FDA first issued a warning on June 3 for New Mexico and Texas, recalling all raw, red tomatoes including roma, plum, and beefsteak (also some of the best tomatoes varieties for making salsa) . A few days later on June 7, they expanded the recall nationwide, warning of an outbreak of salmonella entertidis and salmonella Saintpaul, an uncommon and severe form of the bacteria. The recall was amid 145 cases and over 20 hospitalizations from the food-borne illness across 16 states. As time went on, the outbreak continued to grow as more cases were reported. In mid-July, the FDA lifted the recall on tomatoes — despite the fact that they still had not identified the source of the widespread contamination. Eventually, the agency determined that the salmonella was spreading due to contaminated jalapeño and serrano peppers (with tomatoes never being the true culprit). This salmonella outbreak and subsequent produce recall is considered one of the most expensive in U.S. history, costing the industry over $250 million dollars. Some of the farmers even sued the government to be compensated for their losses and reimburse them the cost of the lost 2008 crop. Read the original article on Mashed.
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
FDA issues 2 recalls on tomatoes for potential contamination of Salmonella in Tennessee, 13 other states
TENNESSEE (WHNT) — The Federal Drug Administration announced two different tomato recalls affecting 14 states for the possible contamination of Salmonella. According to the FDA, both Williams Farms Repack LLC and Ray & Mascari Inc. recalled tomatoes at the start of the month. Williams Farms Repack LLC is recalling Tomatoes sizes: 4×5 2-layer, 60ct 2-layer, 3ct trays in the Williams Farms Repack label, and 5×6 25lb, 6×6 25lb H&C Farms Label, due to a potential contamination of Salmonella. The products were distributed between April 23 to April 28. These products were packaged and sold to wholesalers and distributors located in the states of Georgia, North Carolina & South Carolina. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume the products and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund, or get rid of the product. Consumers with questions may contact Jason Breland at 843-866-7707 or 843-599-5154 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern. Ray & Mascari Inc. is recalling 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes packaged in clamshell containers [20 oz. (1 lb. 4 oz) 567g] with UPC# 7 96553 20062 1, and a master case label with Lot# RM250424 15250B or Lot# RM250427 15250B because of the potential for them to also be contaminated with Salmonella. This recall was in more states than the first, including Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Wisconsin. The Ray & Mascari Inc. product was sold in plastic clamshells containing 4 tomatoes. The 4- 4-count plastic clam shells have a VINE RIPE TOMATOES label containing a Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc., Indianapolis, IN 46204. Consumers who have purchased these 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes are told to discard the product and not consume it. If you have any questions or want to report any illnesses, you may contact Ray & Mascari Inc. at 1-317-637-0234, Monday- Saturday, 6 a.m. through 5 p.m. Eastern. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Supplement company issues urgent recall after finding potentially deadly contamination
Popular wellness brand Optimal Carnivore has issued a voluntary recall on one of its supplements due to potential salmonella contamination. The recall includes nearly 1,500 bottles of their Bone & Joint Restore capsules, which were distributed nationwide through major retailers, such as Amazon. The capsules contain bone marrow and bones from cows, as well as cartilage, per the nutrition label. The recalled bottles have an expiration label of December 2026 and a lot number of 1224064. Each bottle contains 180 capsules. Optimal Carnivore first issued the recall in April and has since taken the product off its website. On Monday, however, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave it a 'Class 1' label, the most serious designation for products with a high risk of health hazard or death. As of now, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the affected supplements, however, the company is urging customers with the affected products not to consume the capsules due to the risk of salmonella infection. The Independent has reached out to the company for comment. Salmonella bacteria are commonly found in the intestinal tracts of humans and other animals, according to the Mayo Clinic. Salmonella infection is a common bacterial disease that can affect the intestinal tracts and occurs after drinking contaminated water, eating raw meat, poultry, eggs, or unpasteurized milk. According to the Cleveland Clinic, Salmonella is the most common form of bacterial food poisoning, with symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, chills, and stomach cramps. 'In some cases, diarrhea can cause severe dehydration and requires prompt medical attention. Life-threatening complications also may develop if the infection spreads beyond the intestines,' Mayo Clinic states. 'The incubation period — the time between exposure and illness — can be 6 hours to 6 days. Often, people who have Salmonella infection think they have the stomach flu,' the clinic explains. Any individual, adult or infant, with a weakened immune system, is at higher risk of serious illness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A well-known tomato brand recently issued a voluntary recall due to potential salmonella contamination. Ray & Mascari Inc. announced the recall of its four packs of Vine Ripe tomatoes on May 2. The company issued the recall after they were notified by Hanshaw & Caping Farms in Immokalee, Florida, of potential bacterial contamination. At-risk tomatoes were packaged in plastic cartons with a VINE RIPE TOMATOES label that read "Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc." The recall extended to several states, including New York, Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Williams Farms Repack LLC also recalled a crop of tomatoes sold to wholesalers in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia, highlighting the same bacterial risk.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Tomato recall across 14 states over Salmonella concerns: Full list of affected products
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall on tomatoes due to potential Salmonella contamination, affecting consumers in 14 states. This recall is linked to tomatoes supplied by Hanshaw & Capling Farms (H&C Farms), located in Immokalee, Florida. The tomatoes were distributed under different labels by two separate companies—Williams Farms Repack LLC and Ray & Mascari Inc. Salmonella is one of the most common causes of fatal foodborne illness in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It can result in a range of symptoms. Some infected people will have no signs, whereas others will develop diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain. Most people will recover without treatment, but the bacteria can lead to potentially deadly outcomes, especially in high-risk groups, such as children under 5 and the elderly. Recall Date: May 2, 2025 Distribution Dates: April 23–28, 2025 States Affected: Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina Product Details: 5×6 25lb H&C Farms label 6×6 25lb H&C Farms label Combo 25lb 4×4 2-layer 4×5 2-layer 60ct 2-layer 60ct 18lb loose XL 18lb loose 3ct trays (UPC: 0 33383 65504 8) Lot Codes: R4467, R4470 What you should do: If you purchased any of the above products, do not consume them. Return them to the point of purchase for a full refund or discard them. For more details call Jason Breland at 843-866-7707 or 843-599-5154. Recall Date: May 3, 2025 States Affected: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Wisconsin Product Details: 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes in 20 oz plastic clamshells UPC: 7 96553 20062 1 Lot Numbers: RM250424 15250B, RM250427 15250B What you should do: Consumers who bought these tomatoes should not consume them. Instead, return the product to the store for a full refund or dispose of it. For more details, you can contact Ray & Mascari Inc by calling 317-637-0234. Related: 180,000 Safety 1st car seats recalled over choking hazard—what parents need to know Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause severe foodborne illness. According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common symptoms include: Diarrhea (which may be bloody) Fever Nausea Vomiting Abdominal pain In some cases, Salmonella infection can lead to more serious complications, such as: Arterial infections Endocarditis (inflammation of the heart lining) Arthritis Certain groups, including young children under 5, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems, are at a higher risk for severe illness or complications. How to Prevent Salmonella Infections As per PIRG, about 14% of all food recalls in the U.S. last year were due to possible salmonella reduce the risk of Salmonella infections, follow these simple steps: Wash and sanitize all surfaces that have come into contact with potentially contaminated food. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water after handling potentially contaminated food or sanitizing surfaces. Avoid eating high-risk foods such as raw sprouts, especially if you are immunocompromised. Prevent cross-contamination with pet food, ensuring that surfaces and utensils used with pet food are sanitized. By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from Salmonella and other foodborne illnesses. As of now, no illnesses have been reported in connection with either of the recalls. However, due to the serious nature of Salmonella contamination, consumers are urged to follow the recall instructions carefully. If you have purchased any of the recalled tomatoes, follow these steps: Do Not Consume: Do not eat the affected tomatoes. Return or Discard: You can return the recalled products to the store where you purchased them for a full refund. If returning is not an option, discard the tomatoes safely. Monitor Symptoms: If you experience symptoms of Salmonella infection (e.g., diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain), seek medical advice immediately. For any questions or further information regarding the recall, consumers can contact the relevant companies using the contact details provided: Williams Farms Repack LLC: Phone: 843-866-7707 or 843-599-5154 Business Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–5:00 pm EST Ray & Mascari Inc.: Phone: 1-317-637-0234 Business Hours: Monday–Saturday, 6:00 am–5:00 pm EST The tomatoes were sold in various sizes and packaging, and the following details apply to all affected products: Lot Codes: The affected products carry the lot codes R4467 and R4470. States Affected: The tomatoes were distributed across the South, Midwest, and parts of New York and Pennsylvania. While no illnesses have been reported yet, consumers in the affected states are urged to dispose of or return the recalled tomatoes to ensure their safety. Salmonella is a serious health risk, and the FDA is closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further risks to public health. For more information, visit the FDA's website or contact the companies involved. Related: Target recalls baby food over lead concerns—here's what parents should do Source: Range of symptoms. CDC. 2025. 'Foodborne Illness Source Estimates.' Tomato recall. FDA. 2025. 'Williams Farms Repack LLC Recalls Tomatoes Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination.' Salmonella symptoms. Mayo Clinic. 2025. 'Salmonella infection.' Food recalls due to Salmonella. PIRG. 2025. 'Food for Thought 2025.'
