Update: Salmonella Investigation Adds Jalapenos, Salsa Fixings

Officials from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continue to investigate an ongoing multi-state outbreak of a strain of salmonella known as Salmonella Saintpaul, believed to be linked to the consumption of certain types of raw tomatoes.  The Washington Post reports that investigators are looking at jalapeno peppers and ingredients used to make salsa, such as cilantro and serrano peppers as possible causes of the salmonella outbreak.  Tomatoes will continue to be investigated as well. 
Investigators are expanding their probe as the number of people sickened in the record salmonella outbreak increased again over the weekend.  According to the FDA and CDC, there have been 943 cases of salmonella reported nationwide, with at least 130 hospitalizations since mid-April after a batch of infections appeared.  That number is up from 922 reported on July 3rd, and 869  the previous week. 

Officials have made clear that tomatoes remain the leading culprit, but they plan to test numerous kinds of fresh produce commonly served with fresh tomatoes.  Investigators are expanding the probe to include such produce as jalapenos, cilantro, and serrano peppers after some of the affected patients reported eating raw tomatoes in salsa and guacamole.  One possibility the FDA is looking into is whether tomatoes and other such produce are sharing a common packing or shipping site where both might become contaminated. 

For more answers to questions related to the outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul inflections associated with tomatoes, see here.

Previously on the DC Metro Area Medical Malpractice Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:

  • Hold the Tomatoes: FDA Warns of Salmonella Risk

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