Company Recalls Peppers, Avocados Due to Health Risk

July 2008

Grande Produce, LTD. CO of Hidalgo, Texas has announced the recall of certain Jalapeno peppers, Serrano peppers, and avocados because they may present a health risk to consumers. The produce has been found to be contaminated with Salmonella, a bacterium that can lead to foodborne illness. This recall is not believed to be related to the current saintpaul Salmonella outbreak.

The affected produce includes Jalapeno and Serrano peppers distributed between May 17th and July 17th 2008. The avocados included in the recall are all sizes of lot #HUE08160090889. The peppers and avocadoes were sold in the following states: Texas, Delaware, North Carolina, Georgia, Oklahoma, Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, New York, Mississippi, Arkansas, Kansas, and Kentucky.

Distribution of these products has been halted while investigators determine the source of the Salmonella contamination. Healthy people who contract Salmonella food poisoning often experience diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, Salmonella can get into the blood stream and cause more serious conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis. In the very young, the very old, and in those with weakened immune systems Salmonella infections can be fatal.