Pre-cut melon linked to salmonella sold in Iowa

Kim Norvell | The Des Moines Register

Show Caption Hide Caption Melons Recalled For Possible Salmonella Contamination Precut melon has been recalled due to a multistate outbreak of salmonella infections, according to the CDC.

Iowa has been added to the list of states where recalled fresh cut watermelon, honeydew melon, cantaloupe, and fresh-cut fruit medley products were sold.

The pre-cut fruit, sold by Caito Foods, has led to at least 60 cases of salmonella infection in five states, according to the Centers for Disease Control. No cases have been reported in Iowa as of Tuesday, but Caito Foods has sold the pre-cut fruit to stores in the state.

Recalled products were sold in clear, plastic clamshell containers at Costco, Jay C, Kroger, Payless, Owen's, Sprouts, Trader Joe's, Walgreens, Walmart, and Whole Foods/Amazon.

Retailers are being asked to take the products off store shelves. Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators for the recalled product and either throw them away or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

"If you don't remember where you bought pre-cut melon, don't eat it and throw it away," the CDC says.

Salmonella leads to fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare cases, infection can result in more serious illnesses such as arterial infections, endocarditis and arthritis. It can be fatal in young children, the elderly or others with weakened immune systems.

Consumers seeking more information can call the U.S. Food and Drug Administration at 844-467-7278. The FDA has a list of specific UPC numbers on its website.