It’s not every day that you hear about produce being recalled, but today is one of those days. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of red, white, yellow, and sweet yellow onions from Thomson International Inc. The reason? A salmonella outbreak that has affected over 650 people across the United States.
If you’ve purchased onions recently and aren’t sure where they came from, it’s important to check the packaging. Any onions from Thomson International Inc. should be thrown away or returned to the store where you bought them. The FDA encourages consumers, restaurants, and retailers to check for these onions, as the contaminated produce has been known to cause serious illnesses in otherwise healthy individuals.
This recall serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly innocuous foods can have serious consequences if not handled and grown properly. It’s important to always be aware of where your produce comes from, and to stay informed about any possible health risks associated with the foods you eat. Stay safe, and stay healthy.
Onion Recall Overview
The recent onion recall has affected numerous brands of onions sold across the United States. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the recall was initiated due to a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Newport infections linked to the consumption of red, white, yellow, and sweet onions produced by Thomson International Inc. based in Bakersfield, California. The onions were distributed to wholesalers, restaurants, and retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada.
Affected Brands
- Thomson Premium
- Thomson International
- Kroger
- Onions 52
- Majestic
- Imperial Fresh
- Utah Onions
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
The symptoms of Salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. The illness usually lasts between four and seven days, and most people recover without treatment. However, in some cases, the infection may be severe, requiring hospitalization. Elderly people, children, and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to severe illness.
If you have consumed onions from the affected brands and experience any of these symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Recall Details
The FDA has advised consumers, restaurants, and retailers to throw away and not eat any onions from Thomson International Inc. or any products made with these onions unless they can confirm that the onions were not grown by Thomson International Inc. The FDA has also recommended that retailers and restaurants should wash and sanitize any surfaces where the onions were stored or prepared.
| Product | Brand | Package | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red onions | Thomson Premium | 5 lbs | May 24 – July 31, 2020 |
| Red onions | Thomson International | 2 lbs, 3 lbs, 5 lbs, 10 lbs, 25 lbs | May 24 – July 31, 2020 |
| Yellow onions | Thomson International | 2 lbs, 3 lbs, 5 lbs, 10 lbs, 25 lbs | May 24 – July 31, 2020 |
| Sweet onions | Thomson International | 2 lbs, 3 lbs, 5 lbs, 10 lbs | May 24 – July 31, 2020 |
The recall is ongoing, and the FDA is advising consumers to check the FDA’s website for updates on the affected brands and products. It is crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions to avoid any illnesses related to contaminated onions.
Reasons for the Onion Recall
Recently, there has been a recall of certain brands of onions due to the risk of salmonella contamination. This recall has affected a wide range of onion products sold across the United States and in Canada.
- The recall was made after red onions, white onions, yellow onions, and other onion products supplied by Thomson International Inc. were found to be contaminated with salmonella.
- The onions were sold between May 1, 2020, and August 1, 2020, in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Canada.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that over 800 cases of salmonella infection have been linked to the recalled onions in the United States alone.
The risk of salmonella contamination can lead to various symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. These symptoms usually appear within 6 hours to 6 days after consumption of the contaminated onions or onion products.
If you have any recalled onions at home, it is highly recommended that you dispose of them immediately. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the onions and sanitize any surfaces that may have come in contact with the contaminated onions.
| Brand of Onions Recalled | Dates Sold | States Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Thomson Premium | May 1, 2020 – August 1, 2020 | All 50 states and Washington D.C. |
| Thomson International | May 1, 2020 – August 1, 2020 | All 50 states and Washington D.C. |
| Onions 52 | May 1, 2020 – August 1, 2020 | AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV, WY, and Canada |
It is important to note that this recall is still ongoing, and more brands of onions may be added to the list as investigations continue. Consumers should stay up-to-date with the latest information from the FDA and CDC regarding this recall.
Affected States in the Onion Recall
As of August 10, 2020, a recall has been made for several brands of onions due to a Salmonella outbreak that has affected dozens of individuals across various states in the United States and Canada. The recall includes all types of onions, such as red, white, and yellow onions, as well as sweet onions.
If you live in any of the following states, it is important to know which brands have been affected by the recall:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Indiana
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Georgia
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Montana
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
The recall is still ongoing and more states may be added to the list. It is important to check with your local grocery store or view the FDA’s website for the most up-to-date information on the recall.
Brands Affected by the Recall
The following brands of onions have been recalled:
| Brand | Company | Distribution Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Red, Yellow, White, and Sweet Onions | Thomson International Inc. | May 1, 2020 – August 1, 2020 |
| Red, Yellow, White, and Sweet Onions | Onions 52 | May 1, 2020 – August 1, 2020 |
| Red Onions | Food Lion | June 6, 2020 – July 21, 2020 |
| Red, Yellow, and Sweet Onions | Great Value | May 1, 2020 – August 1, 2020 |
| Red, Yellow, and Sweet Onions | Trader Joe’s | May 1, 2020 – August 1, 2020 |
| Red, Yellow, and Sweet Onions | Walmart | May 1, 2020 – August 1, 2020 |
If you have purchased any of the affected brands of onions, it is recommended to immediately throw them away and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with them.
Brands Recalled in the Onion Recall
In early August 2020, a nationwide onion recall was initiated due to a salmonella outbreak that affected several states in the United States. Here are the brands that were recalled:
- Thomson Premium
- Tyson Foods Inc.
- Onions 52
- Aldi
- Frys.com
- Safeway
- Trader Joe’s
- Walmart
All of these brands sources their onions from Thomson International Inc. in Bakersfield, California, who initiated the voluntary recall on their red, yellow, white, and sweet onions distributed between May 1 and August 1.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urged consumers, restaurants, and retailers to avoid consuming, serving, or selling any onions from Thomson International Inc. until the salmonella outbreak was contained. As of August 26, 2020, the outbreak had affected a total of 1,012 cases, with 136 hospitalizations and no deaths.
It’s advisable to check the label of any onions you have in your pantry and discard any that are from Thomson International Inc. If you have already consumed onions that were part of the recall, it’s important to stay alert for any symptoms of salmonella infection, which include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, and seek medical attention if necessary.
Health Implications of Consuming Recalled Onions
Consuming recalled onions can lead to a range of health implications, some of which can be quite serious.
- Salmonella Infections: The main risk associated with consuming contaminated onions is Salmonella infections. Symptoms of Salmonella infections can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. While most people recover without any lasting effects, in some cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and other parts of the body, leading to hospitalization or even death.
- Complications for Certain Populations: While anyone can become ill from consuming contaminated onions, certain populations may be at a higher risk for severe illness. These include young children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions.
- Long-Term Health Implications: In some cases, even after recovering from a Salmonella infection, individuals may experience long-term health implications. These can include joint pain, irritable bowel syndrome, and other chronic health conditions.
Common Recalled Onion Brands
As of August 2020, the following brands of onions have been recalled due to possible Salmonella contamination:
[Insert table with brand names and identifying information here]
What to Do if You Have Consumed Recalled Onions
If you have consumed onions that have been recalled, it is important to monitor your health for symptoms of a Salmonella infection. If you experience any symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. It is also important to properly dispose of any remaining recalled onions to prevent the spread of infection.
Preventing Contamination in the Future
To prevent future outbreaks of Salmonella contamination, consumers are advised to practice proper food safety measures when handling and preparing onions. This includes washing hands thoroughly before and after handling onions, cooking onions to an internal temperature of 165°F, and properly storing onions to prevent contamination from other foods.
Steps to Take If You Have Consumed Recalled Onions
If you suspect that you have consumed recalled onions, it’s important to take action to protect your health as soon as possible. Here are the steps you should take:
- Seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of salmonella infection, such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Symptoms typically develop within six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria and can last for up to a week.
- Inform your healthcare provider that you may have been exposed to contaminated onions, so they can perform tests to confirm a salmonella infection and prescribe any necessary treatments, such as antibiotics or rehydration therapy.
- Discard any remaining onions or products that may contain them, even if you have already consumed some without experiencing any symptoms. This includes raw and cooked onions, as well as onion-containing foods like salads, sandwiches, soups, and dips.
- Clean and sanitize any surfaces that have come into contact with contaminated onions, such as cutting boards, knives, countertops, and storage containers. Use hot, soapy water and disinfectant solution to kill any bacteria that may be present.
- Monitor your health for any signs of salmonella infection for several weeks after exposure, as the bacteria can still be present in your body even if you don’t develop symptoms right away. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
- Stay informed about any updates or changes to the onion recall, as new products and brands may be added to the list. Check the FDA website and follow reputable news sources for the latest information.
More Resources for Affected Consumers
If you have been affected by the onion recall, you may be concerned about your legal rights and options for compensation. It’s important to consult with a reputable attorney who specializes in food safety and personal injury cases. They can help you understand your legal rights and options, and guide you through the process of filing a claim or lawsuit against the responsible parties.
In addition, you can find helpful resources and support from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These agencies provide up-to-date information about the recall, as well as advice and guidance for consumers who may have been affected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions and answers about the onion recall:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What brands of onions are affected by the recall? | The recall includes red, yellow, white, and sweet onions from Thompson International Inc., Thomson International Inc. of Bakersfield, California. The onions were shipped to all 50 states, as well as Canada. |
| What should I do if I have already eaten recalled onions? | If you have already consumed onions that are now part of the recall, you should monitor your health for any signs of salmonella infection and follow the steps outlined above. |
| What is salmonella, and how does it affect my health? | Salmonella is a bacterial infection that can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. It can be particularly dangerous for young children, elderly adults, and people with weakened immune systems. |
| How can I stay safe while eating onions? | To reduce your risk of foodborne illness from onions, it’s important to practice safe food handling and preparation techniques. This includes washing your hands frequently, washing and cooking onions thoroughly, and avoiding cross-contamination with other foods. |
If you have any additional concerns or questions about the onion recall, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider, a trusted attorney, or a reputable public health agency.
Efforts to Prevent Future Onion Recalls
Following the widespread Salmonella outbreak linked to onions from Thomson International, various measures have been put in place to prevent future onion recalls. The FDA and CDC have been working tirelessly to investigate the root cause of the contamination, and the industry has also been taking steps to address the issue.
- Increased testing: The onion industry has implemented more rigorous testing of their products to detect any potential contamination early on in the supply chain.
- Improved traceability: Growers and shippers are now required to keep more detailed records of their onions, including where and when they were grown, to help identify the source of contamination in case of future outbreaks.
- Stringent safety protocols: The industry is implementing new food safety standards and guidelines, including sanitation protocols and employee training, to reduce the risk of contamination during the growing, harvesting, and packing processes.
These measures are critical to ensuring the safety of onion products and preventing future recalls. However, it is also important for consumers to take steps to protect themselves. It is recommended to always wash onions before use, and to avoid consuming them raw or in homemade products like salsa, dressing, and dips. Consuming cooked onion products is generally considered safe.
Here is a table of the recent onion recalls to help consumers identify which brands and products to avoid:
| Brand | Product Description/Size | Packaging |
|---|---|---|
| Thomson International | Red, yellow, white, and sweet onions | Various packaging and weights (sold at major retailers) |
| Onions 52 | Red, yellow, and white onions | Various packaging and weights (sold at major retailers) |
| Food Lion | Red onions | 3-pound bag |
| Thomson Premium | Red, yellow, and sweet onions | Various packaging and weights (sold at major retailers) |
By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, consumers can help play a role in preventing future onion recalls and ensuring the safety of the food supply.
What Brand of Onions are Recalled FAQs
1. What brand of onions are being recalled?
Multiple brands of onions are being recalled, including red, yellow, white, and sweet onions, under various brand names.
2. Why are these onions being recalled?
The onions are being recalled due to a possible salmonella contamination.
3. What are the symptoms of Salmonella?
Symptoms of salmonella infection include fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
4. Where were these onions sold?
The onions were sold in all 50 states in the US, as well as in Canada, under various brand names.
5. What should I do if I have purchased any of these onions?
If you have purchased onions under any of the recalled brand names, do not eat them and return them to the store for a refund.
6. Are any other vegetables being recalled?
As of now, only onions have been recalled due to salmonella contamination.
7. Is it safe to eat onions from other brands?
Yes, it is safe to eat onions from other brands as long as they have not been recalled.
Closing Statement
Thank you for reading our FAQs on the recalled onions. Stay safe and be sure to stay in the know about food recalls. We encourage you to visit our website again for more important updates on food safety and to ensure your well-being.