The recall affects products with the "Malichitr" label
The company Trufresh, operated by Arizona-based Sofia Produce LLC, has initiated a mass recall of melons due to a possible risk of salmonella contamination. This measure, supported by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), affects products sold between October 16 and 23 in several US states and Canada.
This recall follows a similar alert from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, which also issued a recall alert for melons due to possible salmonella contamination. Both recalls affect products with the "Malichite" label and associated PLU codes.
The numbers are alarming: more than 99 people in 32 states have been affected, with 45 confirmed hospitalizations. Since the announcement by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of cases has doubled in just one week. The last reported symptom onset date was Nov. 10, according to the FDA.
FDA warning
The FDA highlights the seriousness of salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and potentially fatal infections, especially in young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Consumers who have purchased affected melons are urged to discard them or return them to the point of purchase. Those who experience symptoms after consumption should contact their healthcare provider.
Cantaloupe melons, also known as Chinese melons, were distributed in cardboard containers labeled "Malichita." Each melon presents a sticker with the PLU code, identified as number 4050 next to the words "Product of Mexico/produit du Mexique" (product of Mexico).
What is salmonella and how is it spread?
Salmonella is a bacteria that causes salmonellosis, an infection that is usually acquired by eating contaminated food. Raw meat, eggs, dairy products and unwashed fruits are common sources of infection.
Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and vomiting, lasting 4 to 7 days. Consumers should be attentive to alerts and follow the recommendations of health authorities to ensure the health and well-being of everyone.