Salmonella Outbreak Potentially Linked to Fruit Mix

Evidence indicates that fruit mix from New Jersey-based Tailor Cut Produce are a potential source of this outbreak.

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FDA and the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) are investigating an outbreak of illnesses caused by Salmonella Javiana in Pennsylvania. Epidemiologic and traceback evidence indicate that fruit mix with cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple and grapes from Tailor Cut Produce of North Brunswick, NJ, are a potential source of this outbreak. The firm recalled the fruit mix, called Fruit Luau, as well as cut honeydew, cut cantaloupe and cut pineapple products on December 7.  Food service and institutional food operators should not sell or serve the recalled products.

Tailor Cut Produce reports that their products may be found in restaurants, banquet facilities, hotels, schools and institutional food service establishments in Delaware, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

Because the recalled products may have been distributed to nursing homes, schools, hospitals and other facilities that cater to vulnerable populations, it is important that these facilities do not sell or serve them. Please consult with your distributor to confirm the source of the fruit mix and cut fruit used in your operation.

Background 

The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) reports that it is investigating 33 laboratory-confirmed illnesses of Salmonella at four healthcare facilities in southeast Pennsylvania. Salmonella Javiana has been identified among cases at three of four facilities. According to the Pennsylvania DOH the epidemiologic evidence collected thus far indicates that the Fruit Luau fruit mix (which contains cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, and grapes) from Tailor Cut Produce is a potential source of the illnesses. The state’s review of invoices shows that a common food eaten by many case patients was this fruit mix.

FDA has activated a team to coordinate its outbreak investigation. On December 6, 2019, the FDA and the Pennsylvania DOH shared the results of the investigation thus far with the firm, and the firm’s leadership stated that they would work with FDA to implement a recall of the products. On December 7, Tailor Cut Produce announced a recall.

FDA will continue its investigation and provide updates as more information becomes available.

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