SALMONELLA-CONTAMINATED SERRANO PEPPERS RECALLED AGAIN

Remember that large 2008 outbreak in the U.S. caused by Serrano and Jalapeno peppers (and maybe, tomatoes)? Well, we have another one. WorldVariety Produce, Inc. of Los Angeles, CA has announced a recalls of Serrano peppers, because they may be carrying Salmonella bacteria. No, Jalapenos are not being recalled at the moment. But don't hold your breath. They could be, particularly if contaminated irrigation water is to responsible for the problem (which is likely). As occurred in 2008, the peppers were imported from Mexico.

So far we don't know whether Salmonella Saintpaul is involved again (as it was in the 2008 case) or it is another of the more dangerous Salmonella. Either way, Salmonellosis is not something you want. Special risks exist for children and the elderly, and for people who have weakened immune systems or issues such as poorly operating kidneys.

Here are the facts (so far) as announced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA):

The recalled Serrano peppers were distributed by World Variety Produce to Walmart stores in Montana, Utah, Wisconsin, Wyoming and to Jewel-Osco stores in Illinois. They were sold in open bulk displays between March 1 and March 18.

If you have some peppers at home, don't eat them (I would apply that to Jalapenos as well, just to be extra safe). And don't eat fresh salsa when dining out for the next few weeks.

TSF