Alternative produce blamed as potential source of Salmonella outbreak.
The investigation into the outbreak of salmonella illnesses originally attributed to tomatoes has taken a new turn. Since the initial reports in April concerning the outbreak of salmonella illnesses, experts have warned consumers to avoid red round tomatoes, plum tomatoes, and Roma tomatoes. With the number of confirmed cases of salmonella recently reaching over 1000, the FDA inspectors have tried relentlessly to locate the source. In the course of the investigation, inspectors have found another type of produce that could be part of the problem.
Experts are now warning consumers to avoid jalapeno and Serrano peppers. Some of the people confirmed infected with salmonella ate both tomatoes and peppers. Since many people do not recognize the difference between the two types of peppers, jalapeno and Serrano, experts are advising people to steer clear of both. Some investigators are extending the warning to the herb cilantro as well.
Currently the FDA is now looking into farms and distribution centers that may have handled both types of suspected produce. The investigation to this point has been unsuccessful in pinpointing the exact cause and location of the salmonella outbreak. More than 40 states have reported confirmed cases of salmonella. Cases are still being reported and the FDA has warned that this outbreak is not over yet. The number of cases has not declined and consumers should be careful to choose only tomatoes that have been cleared. And now it is being recommended that consumers also consider avoiding the peppers potentially involved in the salmonella outbreak.
