Jalapeno Peppers distributed since June 30th by Agricola Zaragoza, Inc. to customers in Georgia and Texas are being recalled because sampling by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) found these Jalapenos are contaminated with the same strain of Salmonella Saintpaul that is responsible for the current Salmonella outbreak.
The Salmonella Saintpaul outbreak has contributed to two deaths and sickened over 1,200 people in 43 states and the District of Columbia.
The Mexican-grown Jalapeno Peppers being recalled were shipped in 35lb. plastic crates and in 50lb. bags with no brand name or label.
It is unknown at this time which, if any, of the more than 1,200 illnesses reported to date are related to this particular product or to the grower who supplied this product. Distribution of these products has been suspended while FDA, the Texas Department of State Health Services and the company continue their investigation as to the source of the problem.
Consumers and retailers who purchased Jalapeno Peppers should contact their supplier to determine if their products are involved in the recall. Commercial manufacturers that have used these recalled Jalapeno Peppers as an ingredient in other products (i.e. salsas, etc.) are encouraged to contact their local FDA office to determine if these products should be recalled.
Additionally, restaurants, retail food stores, and similar retail institutions that have used these Jalapeno Peppers as a garnish or as an ingredient to prepare entrees, salsas or other products are asked to dispose of these products making sure that all such peppers are not inadvertently made available for purchase, salvage or donation and therefore preventing any possibility for human or animal consumption.. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (956)-631-6405.