A significant salmonella outbreak, traced to contaminated cantaloupes, has resulted in a comprehensive recall across several states, including Ohio. To date, 43 individuals in 15 states have reported illnesses, with 17 requiring hospitalization. Consumers are advised to be vigilant, as the recall includes whole cantaloupes branded with stickers labeled “Malichita,” “4050,” and “Product of Mexico/produit du Mexique.”
These products were distributed between October 16 and October 23, 2023. In a related development, pre-cut cantaloupe products sold under the Vinyard brand in Oklahoma stores from October 30 to November 10, 2023, have also been recalled. These include various cantaloupe cubes and melon medleys, typically marked with a yellow label reading “Vinyard,” although some may feature a red label.
Further exacerbating the situation, ALDI stores across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, and Wisconsin have also issued recalls for both whole and pre-cut cantaloupes. These products are identifiable by best-by dates ranging from October 27 to October 31, 2023. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that Ohio has recorded one to two cases, contributing to a nationwide tally of illnesses occurring between October 16 and November 6.
The CDC cautions that the actual number of affected individuals is likely much higher, as many cases go unreported due to people recovering without seeking medical care and not undergoing testing for Salmonella. Furthermore, there is often a delay in reporting cases, which can take three to four weeks to confirm as part of an outbreak.