Missouri-based food company Front Row Produce is recalling some batches of its grape tomatoes for a possible bacterial contamination. The grape tomatoes are believed to have been contaminated by the Salmonella bacteria.

Salmonella is a harmful bacterium that commonly contaminates food. These bacteria can cause serious medical harm to the body. Common symptoms of infection caused by the Salmonella bacteria include fever, nausea, stomach pains, vomiting, and sometimes bloody diarrhea. In some cases, a Salmonella infection can cause arterial infections, arthritis and endocarditis. To date, there have been no reports of Salmonella infection that are linked to the recalled tomatoes.

The recalled grape tomatoes were supplied by company Rio Queen Citrus, a Texas-based company. The product was sold in 10-pound bulk containers, as well as in 10-ounce pint containers. The tomatoes are packed in clear plastic, with the label on top of the pack. Although there is no lot number on the packages, affected lot numbers are the following: 2310802, 2510410 and 2310405. Recalled grape tomatoes that were sold in bulk are packed in a plain, brown-colored cardboard box, indicating the lot number 2310801. The affected grape tomatoes were distributed and sold in different food retail stores in Illinois and Missouri.

 

As of December 1, 2011, all shipments of Front Row Produce’s Grape Tomatoes packed in 10-ounce containers have a lot number printed on a green sticker that is placed on the bottom of the packaging. Thus, any packaging that does not have this green sticker should be considered part of the recall. Consumers who have questions about the product can call Front Row Produce at 314-241-4700.