DES MOINES, Iowa – The recent salmonella outbreak linked to cantaloupe has finally come to an end. The Centers for Disease Control made the announcement last Friday, bringing relief to many across the country.
More than 400 people in 44 states fell ill from the tainted cantaloupe, with 158 people requiring hospitalization and tragically, six deaths. The outbreak also affected our neighbors in Canada, with over 160 reported cases, 61 hospitalizations, and seven deaths.
The tainted cantaloupes, sold under the Malchita and Rudy brand names, were distributed by various retailers, including Kwik Trip, Kroger, and Trader Joe’s between September and December 2023. This widespread distribution undoubtedly contributed to the large number of cases reported.
As a precautionary measure, the Food & Drug Administration has issued a warning for individuals who may have frozen cantaloupe products during the outbreak period to check if they were part of the recall. If there is any uncertainty about the origin of the cantaloupe, it is advised to err on the side of caution and dispose of the fruit.
This outbreak serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of food safety and the potential risks that come with consuming contaminated produce. It also highlights the need for increased oversight and regulations to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
As the investigation concludes, it is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and stay informed about any potential food recalls in order to protect themselves and their families from foodborne illnesses.