DAVIS, Calif.--(Business Wire)--
Timco Worldwide Inc. is recalling a limited number of its Large Seedless
Watermelons because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this occurrence.
Salmonella is an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections
in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune
systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever,
diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare
circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into
the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections
(i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.
The Large Seedless Watermelons included in this voluntary recall were
distributed to select grocers, wholesalers and processors in California and
Texas.
The Large Seedless Watermelons are stickered with the "MelonUp!" label with the
PLU (Price Look Up) # 4032 and UPC # 0 33383 40240 6.
The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing, by a
distribution company on Thursday, November 19, 2009. This revealed the presence
of Salmonella on the outside rind of a melon randomly selected for testing.
Timco Worldwide Inc. elected to exercise an abundance of caution and initiate
the recall in the interest of public health. No illnesses have been reported to
date in connection with this occurrence.
Consumers who have purchased Large Seedless Watermelons in the markets noted
above (with the MelonUp! label) are urged to return them to the place of
purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at
1-530-757-1000 press "4" for Food Safety. (Hours of business: Monday through
Friday 8AM to 5PM PST).
As with all fresh fruits and vegetables, Timco Worldwide Inc. recommends that
fresh melons are washed before cutting and/or consumption.
Timco Worldwide Inc.
Rex Lawrence, 530-757-1000 ext. 8262
Copyright Business Wire 2009
