WASHINGTON, D.C. – After a widespread salmonella outbreak linked to cantaloupe, the Centers for Disease Control announced last Friday that the outbreak is officially over. The outbreak affected more than 400 people in 44 states, resulting in 158 hospitalizations and six deaths. In addition to the United States, tainted cantaloupe was also sold in Canada, where there have been over 160 cases, including 61 hospitalizations and seven deaths.
The affected cantaloupes were sold under the Malchita and Rudy brands at various retailers, including Kwik Trip, Kroger, and Trader Joe’s between September and December 2023. The Food & Drug Administration has issued a warning for anyone who may have frozen cantaloupe products, urging them to check if their products were part of the recall. Experts advise that if there is any uncertainty about the origin of the cantaloupe, it’s best to simply discard the fruit.
The outbreak serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of foodborne illnesses and the importance of proper food safety measures. In response to the outbreak, the FDA and other regulatory agencies have worked to identify the source of the contamination and prevent future outbreaks.
It is crucial for consumers to stay informed about food recalls and to follow proper food handling and storage guidelines to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. The cooperation between public health agencies, retailers, and consumers is essential in addressing and preventing similar outbreaks in the future.