Salmonella Outbreak

With new cases of Salmonella from tomatoes still cropping up (the reported tally of infections is now up to 228 cases in 23 states), consumers can't yet let their guard down.

The FDA continues to warn against consuming any raw red plum, raw red Roma, or raw red round tomato that hasn't come from a state or country on the FDA's safe list but if you've eaten tomatoes with the vine still attached, cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, you're in the clear.

The agency still hasn't determined the origin of the offending crops. To date 27 states, multiple counties in Florida, and seven countries have been cleared, but other prominent tomato suppliers for the U.S.-Mexico and several counties in central Florida-are still under investigation. And this entire debacle has cost tomato growers in Florida an estimated $500 million.

Infection with Salmonella bacteria, which grow in animal and human feces causes fever, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Symptoms can set in between 12 and 72 hours. Most cases clear up without treatment within a week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), but some infections can be severe, particularly among infants and elderly people, and in rare cases, can cause death.

Unfortunately in the case of Salmonella, choosing organic doesn't offer any added protection. Organic and conventional farms alike rely on animal manure for fertilizer, which studies have shown is the main source of fecal pathogens like salmonella and E. coli. If your area is listed on the FDA's safe list, go local. Shop at a nearby farmer's market, and ask the farmer how the tomatoes are grown (and what fertilizers are used).  Not only does it support local industry, it also supports alternatives to a centralized food system that allows food-borne diseases to spread far and fast.

You can also grow your own. Check out "Play Dirt for Gardeners" for tips. And whether we're in the midst of an outbreak or not, you should always be following food safety guidelines to minimize contamination risks. See the FDA's Safe Handling of Raw Produce and Fresh-Squeezed Fruit and Vegetable Juices fact sheet for tips.