While it is hard to know what failure may have caused the issue (if indeed this is the source), facilities such as this generally use surface washes with an antimicrobial to reduce potential contamination on the exterior of the produce. So either the surface treatment(s) was not inadequate or there was a post-wash contamination issue. Being a high risk populations (people in hospitals and elderly care facilities), a lower level of Salmonella is enough to cause issues. For facilities knowingly supplying these types of facilities, extra emphasis must be placed on contamination control.
Sourcing is another key...working with growers who follow good agricultural practices, whether those are domestic or foreign growers.
Sourcing is another key...working with growers who follow good agricultural practices, whether those are domestic or foreign growers.
FDA Outbreak Update
https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-potentially-linked-tailor-cut-produce-fruit-mix-winter-2019
Outbreak Investigation of Salmonella Potentially Linked to Tailor Cut Produce Fruit Mix, Winter 2019
Food service companies and institutions in Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey should not serve cut fruit from Tailor Cut Produce
Case Counts
Total Illnesses: 31
States with Cases: PA
December 6, 2019
FDA and the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) are investigating an outbreak of illnesses caused by Salmonella Javiana in Pennsylvania. Epidemiologic and traceback evidence indicate that fruit mix with cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, and grapes from Tailor Cut Produce of North Brunswick, New Jersey, are a potential source of this outbreak.
