# Major Recall Alert: Tomatoes Recalled Due to Potential Foodborne Illness - Salmonella
A significant food safety alert has been issued for 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes by Ray & Mascari Inc. The company is voluntarily recalling these tomatoes due to the potential presence of *Salmonella*. Infections caused by *Salmonella* can result in serious health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
If you've recently purchased tomatoes, you could be impacted by this recall. Here’s everything you need to know about this critical matter, including what steps you should take to protect yourself and your loved ones.
## Why This Recall is Important
Foodborne illnesses like *Salmonella* are a significant public health concern in the United States. Consuming contaminated products can lead to severe symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Diarrhea (which may be bloody)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
In extreme cases, *Salmonella* infections can enter the bloodstream and cause additional complications, such as arterial infections, endocarditis, or arthritis. While healthy individuals may recover quickly, these infections could be life-threatening for high-risk populations.
This recall specifically involves tomatoes packaged under Lot# RM250424 15250B or Lot# RM250427 15250B. If you purchased Ray & Mascari’s 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes, immediate action is required to avoid health risks.
## Details of the Recall
Here’s a breakdown of the most important details:
- **Brand Name**: Ray & Mascari
- **Product**: 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes in plastic clamshell containers
- **Size**: 20 oz. (1 lb. 4 oz.) 567g
- **UPC**: 7 96553 20062 1
- **Affected Lot Numbers**: RM250424 15250B, RM250427 15250B
- **Distribution**: Sold at Gordon Food Service Stores in the following states:
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Michigan
- Missouri
- Mississippi
- New York
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- Wisconsin
The master cases for these products are labeled as cardboard produce boxes containing 12 clamshell containers. The issue originates from a recall by Hanshaw & Capling Farms of Immokalee, Florida, after discovering potential *Salmonella* contamination within their facility.
As of now, **no illnesses** have been reported.
## What You Should Do
If you have purchased the recalled Ray & Mascari 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes:
- **Do not consume the product.** If it’s in your possession, dispose of it immediately.
- **Contact Ray & Mascari** with any questions or for further guidance at 1-317-637-0234. Their hotline operates Monday through Saturday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
- **Monitor your health.** If you’ve already consumed the product and experience symptoms such as fever, nausea, or severe abdominal pain, seek medical attention promptly.
For the full recall notice, check the official FDA statement here: [Ray & Mascari Recall Notice – FDA](https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ray-mascari-inc-recalls-4-count-vine-ripe-tomatoes-because-possible-health-risk).
## Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
Food recalls can happen unexpectedly, underscoring the importance of staying informed. Protect yourself and your family by downloading an app that provides instant recall notifications for food products. This ensures you'll always be aware of potential threats to your health before it’s too late.
By taking these precautions, you can help safeguard your health and prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses. Stay proactive and stay safe!