September 28, 2011 – Andrew Williamson Fresh Produce is expanding the geographic scope of its voluntary recall of organic grape tomatoes. Although the volume of cases from the original production lot has not changed, the company recognizes the possibility that some customers may have distributed the organic grape tomatoes beyond the original 18 states. Therefore, the company is extending the recall to all states in the U.S. The recall includes Canada, as initially indicated.
The recall notice is being issued out of an abundance of caution because one clamshell of Limited Edition organic grape tomatoes tested positive for Salmonella in a random sample collected and tested by the United States Department of Agriculture in Michigan.
Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
All customers who received the organic grape tomatoes directly from the company were notified on September 28 and advised to discard any existing product. No illnesses have been reported in association with this product.
The organic grape tomatoes are sold in 10.5 oz. plastic “clam shell” containers containing UPC code 033383655925, located on the front of the package, below the barcode. The containers also have the words “LIMITED EDITION” and “Product of Mexico” printed on the label. The organic grape tomatoes are also sold in 7 oz. plastic “clam shell” containers with Barcode 20025465, and marketed under the “Fresh & Easy” brand.
The voluntary recall only involves Limited Edition and Fresh & Easy™ labeled organic grape tomatoes and does not involve any other Limited Edition or Fresh & Easy™ branded produce items. Consumers who have any remaining product with UPC code 033383655925 or Barcode 20025465 should not consume it, but should instead discard it. As an added safety measure, retailers are encouraged to check their inventories and store shelves to confirm that product is no longer available for purchase. Andrew Williamson Fresh Produce customer service representatives are contacting retailers to confirm that the recalled product is removed from commerce.
“At Andrew Williamson Fresh Produce our highest priority is the safety and welfare of the consumer. We are committed to the highest standards of food safety and will continue to rigorously pursue the highest food safety levels possible,” said Fred Williamson, President and CEO.
Consumers with questions may contact Andrew Williamson Fresh Produce at 1 (619) 661-6000, Monday-Friday, 8am–5pm pacific time, or email questions to info@andrew-williamson.com .Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts Andrew Williamson Fresh Produce Expands Possible Distribution Area of Voluntary Organic Grape Tomato Recall Recall Still Confined to Original Production Lot.
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