Salmonella Outbreak

Updated information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) indicates that tomatoes now available in the market are safe to be consumed. Food service establishments in Fairfax County may now offer for sale or service any type of fresh tomato, including raw red Roma, raw red plum or raw red round tomatoes.

Cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, and tomatoes sold with the vine still attached from any source may be offered for sale and service.

Public health officials in multiple states continue to investigate the outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul linked to the consumption of certain raw Jalapeño and Serrano peppers.

At this time, it is recommended that food service providers, restaurateurs, and retailers not sell or serve raw jalapeño peppers, avoid handling them, and discard them. Attempts to wash Salmonella contamination that may be present on these peppers is not likely to eliminate the organism, because of Salmonella's physical properties, and is likely to result in cross-contamination. An attempt to peel the peppers is not recommended, as this is likely to introduce any contamination on the exterior of the product into the interior, making elimination of the organism even more unlikely. Attempts to kill Salmonella by cooking may result in cross-contamination and likewise is not recommended.

If you have further questions or concerns, please contact the Food Safety office at (703) 246-2444.

Salmonellosis Outbreak Update

• Salmonella Saintpaul linked to the consumption of certain raw Jalapeño and Serrano peppers. FDA Web site update.
• FDA Question and answers about the Salmonella outbreak on the FDA Web site .