Two weeks ago we posted on this blog about tainted tomatoes causing a salmonella outbreak. Several news sources, including the Wall Street Journal in this article, have announced that the FDA and the CDC are now saying that they are unsure if tomatoes are truly the culprit. Officials have expanded their investigation, to include other foods, since it is estimated that in only 80% of the 869 reported cases of salmonella poisoning people consumed tomatoes. Many of these individuals reported eating tomatoes that were incorporated into dishes such as salsa, and guacamole which are composed of numerous other raw foods. While tomatoes are still the main suspected cause, the FDC and CDC are looking at other foods such as cilantro which is often eaten in conjunction with tomatoes.
In related news the economic impact of this food scare is estimated at over $250 million according to Donna Garren, vice president of health and safety regulatory affairs for the National Restaurant Association. With other food items coming into focus the financial blow is only going to increase.
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