Cantaloupe Sold in Virginia, Four Other States Recalled Due to Salmonella
What You Need to Know
* Cantaloupe sold in five states, including Virginia, has been recalled due to potential Salmonella contamination. * The recall affects cantaloupe sold in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, and New Jersey. * Consumers who have purchased cantaloupe from these states are urged to discard it and not eat it.The recall was issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after samples of cantaloupe tested positive for Salmonella. Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause food poisoning, with symptoms including diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. In severe cases, Salmonella can lead to hospitalization and even death.
The cantaloupe subject to recall was sold at various grocery stores, including Giant Food, Food Lion, and Harris Teeter. A full list of the affected stores can be found on the FDA's website.
Consumers who have purchased cantaloupe from these stores are urged to discard it and not eat it. If you have eaten cantaloupe from these stores and are experiencing symptoms of Salmonella, you should contact your doctor immediately.
What is Salmonella?
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. It is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness in the United States, with an estimated 1.35 million cases each year.
Salmonella can be found in a variety of foods, including poultry, eggs, meat, and unpasteurized milk. It can also be found in fruits and vegetables that have been contaminated with animal feces.
Symptoms of Salmonella
Symptoms of Salmonella food poisoning typically develop within 12 to 72 hours of eating contaminated food. Symptoms can include:
* Diarrhea * Vomiting * Fever * Chills * Headache * Muscle aches * Fatigue * Loss of appetiteHow to Prevent Salmonella
There are a number of things you can do to prevent Salmonella food poisoning, including:
* Cooking poultry, eggs, and meat to a safe internal temperature * Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them * Avoiding unpasteurized milk and milk products * Washing your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat or poultry * Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that have come into contact with raw meat or poultryConclusion
The recall of cantaloupe in Virginia and four other states is a reminder of the importance of food safety. By following the tips above, you can help to prevent Salmonella food poisoning and protect your health.
