Atlanta, Georgia – The recent salmonella outbreak linked to cantaloupe has officially come to an end, the Centers for Disease Control announced last Friday. Over 400 cases were reported across 44 states, resulting in 158 hospitalizations and six deaths. The tainted cantaloupe also made its way to Canada, where over 160 cases and seven deaths were reported.
The affected cantaloupes, sold under the Malchita and Rudy brands, were distributed by various retailers, including Kwik Trip, Kroger, and Trader Joe’s, between September and December 2023. The Food & Drug Administration has advised consumers who may have stored cantaloupe products in their freezer to check if they were part of the recall and to discard any potentially contaminated fruit.
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause foodborne illness, with symptoms including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. While most people recover without treatment, the infection can be particularly dangerous for young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
Health experts emphasize the importance of following food safety guidelines to prevent future outbreaks. Consumers are urged to thoroughly wash and sanitize any surfaces that may have come in contact with the contaminated cantaloupe and to always store perishable produce at the appropriate temperature.
It is crucial for authorities and food retailers to continue working together to ensure the safety and quality of the products available to the public. Despite the resolution of this particular outbreak, ongoing vigilance and proactive measures are necessary to protect consumers from similar incidents in the future.