A recall of tomatoes has been classified as Class I by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), indicating a serious risk of ‘adverse health consequences or death’ due to possible salmonella contamination.
This recall, which affects consumers in three states, was first issued by Williams Farms Repack LLC on May 2 after concerns were raised about tomatoes supplied by H&C Farms.
The FDA officially designated this recall as Class I on May 28, emphasizing the potential health risks involved. Salmonella, known for being one of the leading causes of deadly foodborne illnesses in the U.S., can lead to severe health complications.
Symptoms of salmonella infection can vary widely; many individuals may not show any signs, while others may experience diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain. Most healthy individuals will recover without treatment, yet young children and the elderly are at higher risk for severe illness.
Salmonella bacteria are commonly associated with raw meats, unpasteurized dairy products, and various fruits and vegetables that may have come into contact with contaminated water during processing or irrigation.
Details of the Recall
The tomatoes affected by the Williams Farms Repack LLC recall include nine different package sizes and were distributed to wholesalers and distributors in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina between April 23 and 28.
The recalled tomatoes are:
– 4×5 two-layer, Williams Farms Repack label, lot code R4467
– 60 count two-layer, Williams Farms Repack label, lot code R4467
– 3 count trays, Williams Farms Repack label, lot code R4467
– 5×6 25-pound, H&C Farms label, lot code R4467
– 6×6 25-pound, H&C Farms label, lot codes R4467 and R4470
– Combo 25-pound, lot code R4467
– 4×4 two-layer, lot code R4467
– 60ct 18-pound loose, lot codes R4467 and R4470
– XL 18-pound loose, lot code R4467
Additionally, another recall connected to H&C Farms was announced around the same time, affecting products sold by Ray & Mascari Inc., an Indiana-based supplier. This recall was similarly designated as Class I on May 13.
In this case, the impacted items are packs of four “Vine Ripe Tomatoes” in plastic clamshell containers marked with ‘Packed by Ray & Mascari Inc.’ These tomatoes were distributed through Gordon Food Service Stores across 11 states. The master case for these tomatoes contains either lot number RM250424 15250B or lot number RM250427 15250B, as per the FDA’s report.
Advice for Consumers
Consumers who purchased any of the recalled tomatoes are strongly advised not to consume them.
Instead, they should dispose of the tomatoes or return them to the store where they were purchased for a refund.
For any questions regarding the recall, consumers can reach out to Jason Breland at 843-866-7707 or 843-599-5154 concerning Williams Farms Repack LLC’s tomatoes. For inquiries related to Ray & Mascari Inc.’s recall, people can call 317-637-0234.
Recognizing Salmonella Symptoms
Salmonella can infect food items like raw eggs, meats, and unpasteurized dairy products, along with a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Symptoms associated with salmonella infections may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, nausea and vomiting, chills, headaches, and even blood in the stool. While many healthy individuals may find symptoms dissipate within a few days, the infection can be substantially more dangerous for those with weakened immune systems, including babies, pregnant women, and older adults.
According to consumer advocacy group PIRG, about 14% of food recalls in the U.S. last year were due to potential salmonella contamination, highlighting the importance of maintaining food safety practices.
image source from：https://www.today.com/health/recall/tomato-recall-salmonella-fda-2025-rcna210573
