FDA Recalls ‘Deadly’ Tomatoes in Southern States Over Salmonella Risk

The deadly tomatoes salmonella recall has become a major food safety concern across southern U.S. states. On Friday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced an urgent recall of certain batches of fresh tomatoes distributed in several states due to possible contamination with Salmonella enterica, a dangerous strain known to cause severe foodborne illness.

This recall affects thousands of pounds of tomatoes shipped to supermarkets, restaurants, and food service suppliers in states including Texas, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and Louisiana. The public health warning follows multiple reported cases of food poisoning, some leading to hospitalizations.

In this article, we break down everything you need to know about the recall, what salmonella is, how to stay safe, and what the FDA is doing next.

What We Know About the Deadly Tomatoes Salmonella Recall

Which Tomatoes Are Affected?

According to the FDA, the recall applies to:

• Roma and round red tomatoes sold in bulk or in pre-packaged containers.
• Distributed by: SunnyFresh Produce Co., LLC.
• Shipment dates: Between June 10 and June 24, 2025.
• Affected states: Texas, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina.

Consumers who purchased tomatoes during this time should check the product labels or store receipts and immediately discard the items if they match the description.

What Is Salmonella and Why Is It Dangerous?

Understanding Salmonella Infection

Salmonella enterica is a type of bacteria that causes salmonellosis, a common foodborne illness in the U.S. Each year, it affects over 1.35 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Symptoms of Salmonella Poisoning

Symptoms typically appear 6 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food and include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
• Fever and chills
• Abdominal cramps
• Headache and muscle pain

Most healthy individuals recover without medical treatment. However, infants, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing severe complications, including bloodstream infections and long-term joint pain.

Timeline of the Outbreak

Here is a summary of how the recall unfolded:

• June 15–25: Hospitals in multiple southern states report spikes in food poisoning cases.
• June 26: State health departments notify the CDC of a possible salmonella outbreak linked to tomatoes.
• June 28: FDA launches investigation and identifies the common distributor.
• July 1: FDA issues a formal recall notice, warning consumers and retailers to stop using the affected tomatoes.

How Did the Contamination Happen?

The source of the contamination is still under investigation. However, early reports suggest that the bacteria may have originated during the harvesting or packaging process.

Possible causes include:

• Contaminated irrigation water
• Unsanitary handling equipment
• Improper refrigeration during transportation
• Cross-contamination with infected produce

The FDA is working closely with SunnyFresh Produce Co. to inspect facilities and trace the full distribution path of the tomatoes.

What Should You Do If You Bought These Tomatoes?

If you believe you have purchased or consumed the recalled tomatoes, here’s what to do:

1. Check the Packaging or Store Information

• Look for any labels mentioning SunnyFresh Produce or matching the shipment dates.
• If you’re unsure, contact the store where you made the purchase.

2. Do Not Eat the Tomatoes

• Throw them away immediately, even if they look and smell fine.
• Wash your hands and any surfaces the tomatoes may have touched.

3. Watch for Symptoms

• If you or someone in your household shows signs of salmonella infection, seek medical help.
• Be especially cautious if vulnerable individuals are involved.

4. Report to Local Health Authorities

• Reporting helps the CDC track and contain outbreaks faster.

Retailers and Restaurants: Required Actions

The FDA has urged all businesses that may have received the contaminated produce to:

• Immediately stop selling or serving the tomatoes.
• Contact customers, especially if they operate food delivery services or cater large groups.
• Sanitize all food preparation areas that may have come in contact with the product.
• Cooperate with health inspectors and traceability audits.

Businesses failing to comply with FDA guidelines may face fines or legal action.

Have There Been Any Deaths?

As of now, no deaths have been reported, but at least 43 people have been hospitalized across the seven affected states. The CDC warns that the numbers could rise as more cases are confirmed.

“We are monitoring the situation closely and urge consumers to remain cautious,” said FDA spokesperson Dr. Lisa Conrad. “This is a serious issue, and we are doing everything we can to ensure contaminated products are removed from the supply chain.”

How to Prevent Salmonella at Home

Food safety starts in the kitchen. Here are some best practices to reduce the risk of salmonella and other foodborne illnesses:

Wash:

• Always wash fruits and vegetables under running water before eating, even if you plan to peel them.

Separate:

• Use separate cutting boards for produce, meat, and seafood to avoid cross-contamination.

Cook:

• While tomatoes are often eaten raw, cooking them can kill most harmful bacteria.

Refrigerate:

• Keep perishable items like cut tomatoes refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C).

Recalls Are Not New — But This One Is Serious

Food recalls happen regularly in the U.S., often as a precaution. However, the deadly tomatoes salmonella recall has drawn national attention due to the number of states involved and the potential for serious illness.

Earlier this year, romaine lettuce and cantaloupes were also recalled for similar reasons, highlighting ongoing concerns about the safety of fresh produce.

What the FDA Is Doing Next

In response to this outbreak, the FDA has initiated the following actions:

• Inspections of SunnyFresh Produce’s farms and packaging centers.
• Tracing all distribution chains to ensure full product recall.
• Collaboration with the CDC and local health departments to track illness cases.
• Reviewing food safety standards in tomato harvesting and packaging processes.

More updates are expected in the coming days as investigations continue.

Final Thoughts: Stay Alert and Stay Safe

This deadly tomatoes salmonella recall is a reminder of how vulnerable our food systems can be. As consumers, staying informed and practicing safe food habits are our best defenses.

If you live in any of the affected states and have recently bought tomatoes, don’t take any chances throw them out immediately. It’s better to lose a few dollars than to risk your health or that of your family.

Stay tuned to official updates from the FDA and CDC to stay informed about further developments.

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