Salmonella Found In Red Tomatoes, or is it Peppers?

From April 23 though July 9, 2008, there have been 1,017 reported cases of salmonellosis caused by Salmonella Saintpaul. Approximately 30 reports of illness in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, and Utah are currently being investigated to determine whether they are also linked to tomatoes, jalapeno peppers or cilantro. There are no reported deaths.

The specific type and source of tomatoes, peppers and cilantro are under investigation. However, preliminary data suggest that raw red plum, red Roma, or round red tomatoes are the cause. At this time, consumers in New Mexico and Texas should limit their tomato consumption to tomatoes that have not been implicated in the outbreak. These include cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, tomatoes sold with the vine still attached, and tomatoes grown at home.