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FOOD SAFETY UPDATE: Multi-State Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Pre-cut Melons

June 08, 2018

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reporting six cases of Salmonella that match a multi-state outbreak strain. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reporting 60 cases from five states that indicates pre-cut melons, including fruit salads, are a likely source of this outbreak. The IDPH is urging consumers not to eat pre-cut melon purchased from any Walmart store in Illinois or any other affected states at this time.

What we know:

  • CDC is reporting 60 cases of Salmonella  illnesses from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri and Ohio
    • There have been more hospitalizations with this outbreak than what is typically seen
  • Illinois cases range in age from 23 to 87 years
    • Illnesses have been reported in all regions of the state
    • IDPH is urging people not to consume pre-cut melons, including fruit salads, from any Walmart stores in Illinois, or any of the other states affected
      • As the investigation develops, additional grocery stores may be added to the warning
    • Walmart stores in Illinois have removed pre-cut melons linked to this outbreak from their shelves
  • Kroger is withdrawing pre-cut cantaloupe, pre-cut watermelon and precut melon mixes sold in Indiana and Michigan retail stores due to possible contamination from Salmonella Adelaide
    • On June 7, the company was informed by the CDC and FDA that multiple illnesses have been reported in connection with this outbreak
      • Products implicated were limited to select Kroger, Jay C, Owen’s and Pay Less stores in Indiana and Michigan by a third party supplier
      • Please see attached press release for a complete list of affected Kroger products
    • Reported illness onset ended on May 28
  • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is working to identify the source of Salmonella
    • There may be recalls associated with this outbreak investigation as more information is learned

As of the time of this update, CDC and FDA have not yet released an official public statement related to this outbreak or its investigation.

For more information please visit the following resources:

Centers for Disease Control - Salmonella

IDPH Press Release

Kroger Press Release

Markon is closely following this outbreak investigation and will continue to update members when more information becomes available.

Angie Ramirez

Food Safety Program Manager

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