Mexico’s Health Department Orders Closure
Mexico’s Health Department has taken action in response to a salmonella outbreak that has claimed the lives of five people in Canada and three in the United States. The department has ordered the temporary closure of a melon-packing plant that has been linked to the infections.
Unidentified Company Implicated
While the Health Department did not reveal the name of the company involved, Canada’s Public Health Agency has identified Malichita and Rudy brand cantaloupes as the source of the outbreak. These cantaloupes are grown in the Sonora area in Mexico.
Investigations Underway
The Health Department has initiated investigations to determine the cause of the contamination. Inspectors have collected water samples and swabbed surfaces at the plant in an effort to detect traces of salmonella bacteria. The exact violations found at the plant have not been disclosed.
Widespread Impact
Since October, over 230 individuals in the United States and 129 in Canada have fallen ill as a result of this outbreak. The significant number of affected individuals has prompted health officials to issue a warning.
Recalls and Safety Precautions
Two companies, Sofia Produce LLC and Pacific Trellis Fruit LLC, have imported the contaminated cantaloupes. In response, more than 36,000 boxes or cases of cantaloupe have been recalled. Health officials are urging consumers, retailers, and restaurants to avoid purchasing, consuming, or serving cantaloupes unless they are certain of the source.
Stay informed and prioritize safety when it comes to your food choices.