A recent Salmonella outbreak has caused widespread concern among the public, particularly those who have consumed onions imported from Mexico between July 1, 2021 and August 27, 2021. The outbreak has been traced back to these onions, which were distributed to varios restaurants and grocery stores, including H-E-B.
The H-E-B store chain has taken swift action in response to the outbreak, issuing a recall of onions sold at its stores during the affected period. The recall is a precautionary measure to prevent further infections and to protect the health of customers.
The recalled onions were sold under the brand names ‘Thomson Premium,’ ‘TLC Thomson International,’ ‘Tender Loving Care,’ ‘El Competitor,’ ‘Hartley’s Best,’ and ‘Onions 52.’ Customers who have purchased onions from any of these brands are urged to immediately dispose of them and to contact H-E-B for a full refund.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that there have been over 500 cases of Salmonella infections across 37 states. The symptoms of Salmonella infection include fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, which can last for several days. While most people recover without medical intervention, severe cases can lead to hospitalization and even death, particularly among young children, elderly individuals, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
It is important to note that the Salmonella outbreak is not limited to H-E-B stores alone. Other retailers and restaurants have also been affected, including Target and Walmart. The onions in question were also sold to distributors, wholesalers, and foodservice operators across the United States and Canada.
To prevent further infections, it is highly recommended that consumers avoid consuming onions from the affected brands and period. Additionally, it is advised to thoroughly wash any onions before consumption, cook them to a minimum temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit, and to practice good hand hygiene after handling any food items.
The Salmonella outbreak linked to onions imported from Mexico has caused widespread concern among the public and has prompted various retailers and restaurants, including H-E-B, to issue recalls of affected products. It is important for consumers to take necessary precautions to avoid infection and to dispose of any recalled products immediately.
Is There A Salmonella Outbreak In Onions In Texas?
There is a salmonella outbreak in onions that have been distributed to various locations including Texas. On October 20, 2021, federal health officials announced that the source of the outbreak was traced back to onions imported from Mexico and distributed to restaurants and grocery stores including Target and Walmart between July 1, 2021 and August 27, 2021. The affected onions were sold under various brand names including Thomson International, El Competitor, Hartley’s Best, and Onions 52.
It is important to note that the recall specifically includes the Target store on McKinney SW, but it is possible that the affected onions may have been distributed to other locations in Texas as well. Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, and can last for seveal days to a week. To protect yourself and your family, it is recommended to avoid consuming any onions that may be part of the recall and to properly wash and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated onions.
What Retailers Sold The Recalled Onions?
The recalled Vidalia onions were sold exclusively at Publix stores. These onions were sold under the Little Bear brand and were available for purchase from June 22 to June 24. The onions were packaged in bags with a sticker showing the code “4159.”
Can Salmonella Be Cooked Out Of Onions?
Salmonella can be cooked out of onions by heating them to 150 F. This temperature is known to kill any potential salmonella bacteria present in onions. It is important to note that cooking onions alone may not be enough to eliminate salmonella in all cases. Proper food handling and cooking practices should always be followed to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. Additionally, it is recommended to use fresh onions and to store them properly to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria.
Conclusion
The recent Salmonella outbreak linked to imported onions from Mexico has caused concern aong consumers and health officials alike. The recall of onions from several major retailers, including Target and Walmart, highlights the importance of monitoring food safety and following proper cooking procedures. As a food safety expert, Dr. Stephen Amato recommends cooking onions to a temperature of 150 F to ensure any potential Salmonella bacteria are eliminated. It is crucial for consumers to stay informed about food recalls and take necessary precautions to prevent foodborne illnesses. By following proper food handling and cooking procedures, we can work towards maintaining a safe and healthy food supply for all.
