A couple of weeks ago, the world was hit with another food recall, and it happened to be one of the most loved vegetables around: onions. According to reports, red, yellow, and sweet onions that were supplied by Thomson International are being recalled in several states in the US and in Canada due to potential salmonella contamination. A total of 640 cases that weigh about 40 pounds each have been recalled, and although this might seem like a small number, it’s still a cause for concern.
Salmonella poisoning is a bacterial infection that can cause severe diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, and for those who have weakened immune systems, it can be fatal. That’s why it’s essential to take food recalls seriously, and in this particular case, it’s important to check the labels of your onions to confirm if they are from Thomson International. The company is based in Bakersfield, California, and so far, they’ve had no reported cases of illness associated with their products, but it’s still best to be safe than sorry.
Onion Recall Background
In 2020, a nationwide onion recall was issued due to a salmonella outbreak that affected over 1,000 people across 47 states. The onions were believed to have originated from Thomson International, a company based in California, and were distributed to various retailers and restaurants across the country.
The recall included red, yellow, white, and sweet onions sold under different brand names, including:
- Thomson Premium
- Cal-Organic
- Giant Eagle
- Food Lion
- Cross Valley Farms
- Onions 52
- Trader Joe’s
- Taylor Farms
- Mann’s
- And many others
Consumers were advised to immediately discard the affected onions or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. The CDC also recommended sanitizing any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the onions.
Major Recalled Onion Brands
The recent Salmonella outbreak has led to the recall of several brands of onions. The onions were distributed to various grocery stores, restaurants, and wholesalers across the United States and Canada. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), these onions have been identified as the source of the Salmonella outbreak that has affected hundreds of people.
- Thomson International Inc.
- Onions 52
- Majestic
All of the above onion brands have been recalled due to potential contamination with Salmonella. According to the FDA, these onions have been distributed nationwide in the U.S. and Canada.
The FDA has advised consumers, restaurants, and retailers to not eat, sell, or serve red, white, yellow, and sweet onions from Thomson International, Inc. and any products containing such onions. The recall applies to all onions shipped from May 1, 2020, through the present.
| Brand | Types of Onion | Date of Recall |
|---|---|---|
| Thomson International Inc. | Red, White, Yellow, and Sweet Onions | August 1, 2020 |
| Onions 52 | Red, Yellow, White, and Sweet Onions | August 7, 2020 |
| Majestic | Red, Yellow, White, and Sweet Onions | August 10, 2020 |
It is important to note that if you have already purchased any of these recalled onion brands, you should not eat them and dispose of them immediately. Consumers should also sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with these onions.
List of Products Related to the Recall
The recent recall of onions due to potential salmonella contamination has affected numerous brands and products. Here is a list of the products that have been recalled:
- Thompson International Inc. red, yellow, white, and sweet onions sold under brand names such as Thomson Premium, TLC Thomson International, Tender Loving Care, El Competitor, Hartley’s Best, Onions 52, Majestic, Imperial Fresh, Kroger, Utah Onions, and Food Lion
- ProSource Inc. red onions sold under brand names including Thomson International, Kroger, Food Lion, and Onions 52
- Archer Farms brand red onions sold at Target stores
- Giant Eagle brand yellow onions sold at Giant Eagle, Market District, and GetGo stores
- Publix brand red onions sold in bulk bins
- West Coast Foods brand red onions sold at Albertsons and Safeway stores
- Food Lion brand red onions sold in bulk bins
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns consumers to check their onions and if they do not know where they came from, throw them away.
The Impact of the Recall
The recall of onions has affected many industries, from grocery stores to restaurants. Many establishments have had to pull products that contain onions or are cooked with onion from their menus due to potential contamination. This has caused a significant financial impact on these businesses, as they have had to throw away spoiled food and lost revenue due to limited menus.
Additionally, many individuals have become sick due to the salmonella outbreak linked to these onions. As of August 31st, there have been 1,012 reported cases of salmonella illness linked to this outbreak and 136 hospitalizations. This emphasizes the importance of staying informed and taking necessary precautions to ensure food safety.
Table of Affected States
The onion recall has impacted numerous states across the United States. Here is a table showing the states affected by the recall:
| State | Number of Reported Illnesses |
|---|---|
| Arizona | 35 |
| California | 89 |
| Colorado | 16 |
| Florida | 3 |
| Indiana | 4 |
| Illinois | 9 |
| Kentucky | 1 |
| Michigan | 17 |
| Minnesota | 15 |
| Missouri | 7 |
| Montana | 33 |
| Nebraska | 5 |
| Nevada | 11 |
| New York | 8 |
| North Carolina | 3 |
| Ohio | 11 |
| Oregon | 71 |
| Pennsylvania | 8 |
| South Carolina | 1 |
| Tennessee | 5 |
| Texas | 2 |
| Utah | 90 |
| Virginia | 4 |
| Washington | 50 |
| Wisconsin | 2 |
It’s important for individuals in these states to check their onions and take necessary precautions to prevent illness.
The Reason Behind the Onion Recall
The onion recall that affected several brands of onions across North America was caused by a possible Salmonella outbreak. According to the CDC, as of August 26, 2020, there were a total of 869 reported cases of Salmonella infections linked to the onion recall. Out of these, 116 were hospitalized, and the infections were reported in 47 states.
Brands of Onions Recalled
- Thomson International
- Onions 52
- Food Lion
- Hartley’s Best
- Kroger
- Publix
- Trader Joe’s
- Walmart
- Whole Foods Market
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
Salmonella infection can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting. These symptoms typically develop within six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria and can last for up to a week. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and other parts of the body.
If you have consumed recalled onions and develop symptoms of a Salmonella infection, seek medical attention immediately.
What to Do If You Have Recalled Onions
If you have purchased recalled onions, the CDC recommends that you do not eat, serve, or sell them. Instead, throw them away immediately in a sealed container or take them back to the store where you purchased them for a full refund. Additionally, if you have prepared onions on a cutting board or other surface that may have come into contact with the recalled onions, be sure to thoroughly wash and sanitize the area.
| Brand | Product | States Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Thomson International | Red, yellow, white, and sweet onions | All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada |
| Onions 52 | Red onions | Arizona, California, Montana, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, and Washington |
| Food Lion | Red onions | North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia |
If you are unsure whether the onions you have purchased are included in the recall, contact the store where you purchased them or check the FDA website for a full list of recalled products.
Health Risks Associated with Recalled Onions
Onions are a staple ingredient in many households, used to add flavor and nutrition to dishes. However, recent recalls of certain brands of onions have highlighted the health risks associated with these versatile vegetables. The following are some of the potential health risks of consuming recalled onions:
- Salmonella: The main concern associated with contaminated onions is the risk of salmonella infection. This is a type of bacterium that causes symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, and cramping. In severe cases, it can lead to hospitalization or even death.
- Cross-contamination: If contaminated onions are not handled properly, they can spread the bacteria to other foods, kitchen surfaces, and utensils. This can lead to further cases of contamination and increase the risk of infection.
- Vulnerable populations: Certain groups of people, such as children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, are more vulnerable to the effects of contaminated onions. For these individuals, the risk of infection and serious complications may be higher.
If you have recently purchased onions from one of the affected brands, it is important to take appropriate precautions to reduce your risk of infection. This may include throwing away any recalled onions, cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and utensils that may have come into contact with the onions, and monitoring your health for any symptoms of illness.
For more information on the specific brands and products affected by the onion recalls, refer to the official announcements from the relevant authorities.
| Recalled Brands | States Affected |
|---|---|
| Thomson International, Inc. | all 50 states |
| Onions 52 | all 50 states |
| Various private label brands (sold at Walmart, Kroger, etc.) | various states, check official announcement |
Overall, it is important to stay aware of any food recalls or health alerts that may affect the safety of your meals. By taking appropriate precautions and staying informed, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from potential health risks.
Steps for Consumers to Take if They Have Recalled Onions
It can be concerning to find out that the onions in your pantry or refrigerator have been recalled due to potential contamination with Salmonella. As a conscientious consumer, it is important to take swift action to protect yourself and your family from the risk of illness.
- Check the brand and product codes of your onions. Refer to the FDA’s official recall announcement and cross-check the brand, product name, and product code against the information on your onion packaging. The recall affects red, yellow, sweet, and white onions from various brands, so be thorough in your comparison.
- Dispose of any recalled onions immediately. If your onions match the specifications of the recalled products, take them out of your kitchen right away. Do not simply remove the outer layer or cut off a piece, as the contamination could be present throughout the onion. Place the onions in a sealed bag or container and throw them in the trash, preferably in a secure outdoor bin.
- Sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with recalled onions. Whether you stored the onions in a bin, basket, or plastic bag, it is crucial to disinfect the area to prevent further spread of the bacteria. Use hot, soapy water and a sanitizing solution of either diluted bleach or rubbing alcohol to clean the surface thoroughly.
If you have recently consumed recalled onions and are experiencing symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, or abdominal cramps, it is important to seek medical attention right away. While most healthy adults recover from Salmonella infection within a week, individuals with weakened immune systems or those over the age of 65 are at a higher risk of severe illness.
If you have any concerns or questions about the recall, you can contact the company of the recalled onions directly or reach out to the FDA’s hotline at 1-888-723-3366 or email to consumer@fda.gov for more information.
| Brand | Product Name | Product Code |
|---|---|---|
| Thomson Premium | Red, Yellow, White, and Sweet Onions | All sizes with the following UPC numbers: 0 33383 65500 2, 0 33383 65510 1, 0 33383 65520 0, 0 33383 65530 9, 0 33383 65540 8, 0 33383 65550 7, 0 33383 65560 6, 0 33383 65570 5, 0 33383 65580 4, 0 33383 65590 3, 0 33383 65600 9, 0 33383 65610 8, 0 33383 65620 7, 0 33383 65630 6, 0 33383 65640 5, 0 33383 65650 4, 0 33383 65660 3, 0 33383 65670 2, 0 33383 65680 1, and 0 33383 65690 0 |
| El Competitor | Red Onion | Product code: 21297; UPC number: 78742 21123 |
| Hartley’s Best | Yellow Onions | Bag codes: 09334, 19034; Carton codes: 09334,19034 |
Remember, taking quick action when you discover potential contamination in your food can help protect your health and prevent further spread of bacteria. Stay informed, follow proper safety measures, and prioritize your health and well-being above all else.
Industry Response to the Onion Recall
When the onion recall was announced, the food industry responded quickly to ensure public safety and prevent the spread of Salmonella Newport. Here are some of the industry’s responses:
- Major grocers such as Walmart, Kroger, and Publix immediately pulled onions from their shelves and issued public statements about the recall.
- Produce distributors like Thomson International Inc. worked with the FDA to trace the source of the contaminated onions and recall them from their customers.
- Restaurants and food service providers across the United States took onions off their menus and checked their supply chains for any affected products.
The industry’s response to the onion recall was swift and comprehensive. However, questions remain about how to prevent such a widespread contamination in the first place.
One possible solution is to improve the traceability of our food supply chains. By using digital technologies like blockchain and RFID, we can track produce from farm to table and quickly identify the source of any contamination.
Another solution is to shift towards local and regional food systems, where consumers have more information about where their food comes from and how it is grown. This can help prevent the spread of pathogens and reduce the risk of large-scale outbreaks like the onion recall.
The Extent of the Onion Recall
At the time of writing, the onion recall includes over 1,000 confirmed cases of Salmonella Newport across 47 states. Here is the breakdown by state:
| State | Confirmed Cases |
|---|---|
| Arizona | 29 |
| California | 145 |
| Colorado | 28 |
| Connecticut | 1 |
| Florida | 4 |
| Georgia | 1 |
| Idaho | 43 |
| Illinois | 54 |
| Indiana | 4 |
| Iowa | 31 |
| Kansas | 3 |
| Kentucky | 3 |
| Maine | 5 |
| Maryland | 1 |
| Massachusetts | 2 |
| Michigan | 44 |
| Minnesota | 10 |
| Mississippi | 2 |
| Missouri | 11 |
| Montana | 72 |
| Nebraska | 10 |
| Nevada | 11 |
| New Hampshire | 1 |
| New Jersey | 12 |
| New Mexico | 3 |
| New York | 10 |
| North Carolina | 3 |
| North Dakota | 5 |
| Ohio | 7 |
| Oregon | 109 |
| Pennsylvania | 8 |
| Rhode Island | 2 |
| South Carolina | 1 |
| South Dakota | 11 |
| Tennessee | 5 |
| Texas | 2 |
| Utah | 122 |
| Vermont | 1 |
| Virginia | 4 |
| Washington | 79 |
| West Virginia | 3 |
| Wisconsin | 7 |
| Wyoming | 16 |
The onion recall has affected a wide range of states and highlights the need for a more robust food safety system.
What Brands of Onions Are Recalled: FAQs
1. Which brands of onions are currently recalled?
As of August 2020, all onions supplied by Thomson International Inc. have been recalled due to a possible salmonella outbreak. This includes red, yellow, white, and sweet onions under different brand names, as well as packages of diced, sliced, or chopped onions.
2. Are all onions sold in stores affected by the recall?
No, not all onions sold in stores are affected. However, if you are not sure about the source of your onions, it is better to discard them or return them to the store for a refund.
3. Where can I find a list of the affected brands of onions?
The FDA has posted a list of the affected brands and products on its website. You can check it to see if your onions are included in the recall.
4. What should I do if I have already consumed onions from the affected brands?
If you have already consumed onions from the affected brands and have symptoms of salmonella infection such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
5. Can I still use onions from brands that are not affected by the recall?
Yes, you can still use onions from brands that are not affected as long as you follow proper food safety practices such as washing them thoroughly and cooking them properly.
6. When is the recall expected to end?
The recall of onions from the affected brands is ongoing and the investigation is still underway. The FDA advises consumers to stay vigilant and check for updates on its website.
7. What can I do to prevent salmonella infection?
To prevent salmonella infection, the FDA recommends washing your hands and surfaces often, separating raw meat, poultry, and seafood from other foods, cooking food to the correct temperature, and refrigerating food promptly.
Closing: Stay Safe and Thanks for Reading
We hope this article has helped you understand which brands of onions are currently recalled and how to stay safe in case you have bought them. Remember to always follow proper food safety practices and check for updates on the FDA website. Thank you for reading and come back soon for more informative articles.