Denver, Colorado – The salmonella outbreak linked to cantaloupe has officially come to an end, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The outbreak affected over 400 people in 44 states, resulting in 158 hospitalizations and six deaths. Additionally, tainted cantaloupe also made its way to Canada, where more than 160 cases were reported, including 61 hospitalizations and seven deaths.
The specific brands of cantaloupe, Malchita and Rudy, were sold at various retailers such as Kwik Trip, Kroger, and Trader Joe’s between September and December 2023. As a result, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning, advising consumers who may have stored cantaloupe products in their freezers during that time period to check if they were part of the recall. The FDA also recommends that anyone unsure about the safety of their cantaloupe should just dispose of the fruit.
The outbreak has raised concerns about the safety of the food supply chain and the need for stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future. Health officials are urging consumers to remain vigilant and stay informed about food recalls to protect themselves and their families from potential health risks.
This recent outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of proper food handling and the need for thorough food safety measures at every stage of production and distribution. The CDC and FDA continue to monitor the situation closely and are working with retailers and suppliers to ensure the safety of the food supply chain. As the investigation into the outbreak concludes, it is crucial for consumers to remain cautious and informed about food safety to prevent future outbreaks.