Outbreak investigation of Salmonella Javiana potentially linked to Tailor Cut Produce fruit mix
FDA's investigation continues; food service companies and institutions should not serve recalled products
Recommendation
FDA, CDC and state and local partners are investigating an outbreak of illnesses caused by Salmonella Javiana. Epidemiologic and traceback evidence indicate that fruit mix with cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, and grapes from Tailor Cut Produce of North Brunswick, New Jersey, is 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, long-term care facilities 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
As of December 30, 2019, CDC is reporting 96 illnesses confirmed by Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) in CA, CO, CT, DE, IL, MN, NJ, NY, PA, VA, and WA. Illnesses were reported from states where Tailor Cut Produce distributes, including Pennsylvania, New York City, New Jersey, and Delaware. Ill people from other states reported traveling to these states in the week before their illness started. CDC reports only cases confirmed by WGS, and these numbers may differ from the numbers that states are investigating.
FDA's inspection at Tailor Cut Produce is ongoing. FDA is currently collecting records to support a traceback investigation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
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