FDA Class I Alert: 7 Critical Facts About The Latest Tomato Recall (May 2025)

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued its most severe warning—a Class I Recall—for certain fresh tomatoes distributed by Williams Farms Repack LLC, effective as of May 2025. This urgent public health alert is tied to a potential risk of *Salmonella* contamination, a serious pathogen that can lead to severe and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and those with weakened immune systems. The recall highlights the persistent threat of foodborne illness outbreaks in fresh produce and demands immediate action from consumers and retailers across the affected states. This comprehensive guide, updated on December 18, 2025, breaks down the critical details of the latest tomato recall, including the specific products involved, the states affected, and the crucial steps you must take right now to protect your household from Salmonellosis. Understanding the nuances of an FDA Class I warning is essential, as it signifies a reasonable probability of serious adverse health consequences or even death from consuming the recalled product.

Latest Tomato Recall Facts: Brands, Products, and Distribution Details

The most recent and concerning alert centers on fresh, raw tomatoes distributed under specific labels and lot numbers. This is not a generalized warning; it targets particular shipments that have been identified as high-risk for *Salmonella* contamination.

The Core of the Williams Farms Repack LLC Recall

• Recalling Company: Williams Farms Repack LLC.
• Contaminant: Potential *Salmonella* contamination.
• FDA Risk Level: Class I Recall (The highest and most severe risk classification).
• Distribution Dates: The affected products were distributed between April 23 and April 28, 2025.
• Affected States: Initial distribution included Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, though product spread may extend further.

Specific Recalled Tomato Products and Identifying Codes

The recall covers multiple sizes and labels of fresh, raw tomatoes. Consumers must check for the following specific product identifiers, often found on packaging or case labels:

Affected Labels:

• Williams Farms Repack
• H&C Farms

Affected Product Sizes (Fresh Tomatoes):

• 4x5 2 layer
• 60ct 2 layer
• 3ct trays
• 5x6 25lb boxes (H&C Farms label)
• 6x6 25lb boxes (H&C Farms label)

Crucial Lot Numbers and UPCs:

• 5 Shocking Facts About Anna Congdon Penn State Sweetheart To Nfl Fiances Social Media Firestorm Cc90e

While consumers may not see the master case lot numbers, they are essential for retailers and distributors. One potentially affected consumer package, a 4-count Vine Ripe tomato tray, may have been sold by Gordon Food Service Stores in 11 states, including New York, Illinois, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

• Example UPC: 7 96553 20062 1 (for specific 4-count trays)
• Example Lot Numbers: RM250424 15250B or RM250427 15250B

Understanding the Threat: What is Salmonellosis?

The reason the FDA elevated this to a Class I recall is the severe health risk posed by *Salmonella* bacteria. Salmonellosis is the infection caused by ingesting the pathogen, and while many healthy individuals recover, the illness can be life-threatening.

Symptoms of Salmonella Infection (Salmonellosis)

Symptoms typically begin 6 hours to 6 days after infection and can last up to a week. If you or a family member consumed raw tomatoes between late April and early May 2025 and experience any of the following, you should contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Common Symptoms:

• Diarrhea (often severe, and may be bloody)
• Fever and chills
• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration (a major concern, especially for the young and elderly)

In rare but serious cases, the *Salmonella* organism can enter the bloodstream and produce more severe illnesses, such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis.

• The Untouchable Privacy 7 Secrets Of Rachel Mcadams And Jamie Lindens Life Beyond The Red Carpet E820e

The FDA Class I Recall Definition

A Class I recall is the most serious type of recall issued by the FDA.

It signifies a situation where there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death. This designation is a clear signal to the public that immediate action—product disposal—is necessary to prevent a widespread foodborne illness outbreak.

Immediate Consumer Action: 5 Steps to Take Now

If you live in or recently visited the affected states (Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and others) and purchased raw tomatoes around the distribution dates, you must take these steps to mitigate the risk of infection and cross-contamination.

1. Check and Dispose: Immediately check your refrigerator, pantry, and any stored produce for fresh tomatoes (raw red Roma, raw red plum, and raw red round tomatoes) purchased during the time frame. If you cannot confirm the source or lot number, the safest course of action is to throw them away. Do not eat them.
2. Clean Surfaces: Thoroughly wash and sanitize all surfaces, containers, and utensils that may have come into contact with the recalled tomatoes to prevent cross-contamination. This includes cutting boards, knives, and refrigerator drawers.
3. Wash Hands: Practice rigorous food safety hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling any produce.
4. Monitor for Symptoms: Pay close attention to yourself and your family for any symptoms of Salmonellosis over the next week. The incubation period is short, and early detection is key.
5. Seek Medical Advice: If you develop severe symptoms, such as high fever, bloody diarrhea, or signs of dehydration, seek immediate medical attention and inform your doctor about the potential exposure to contaminated tomatoes.

While this specific recall focuses on fresh tomatoes, consumers should also be aware of other recent alerts, such as the June 2024 recall involving certain canned diced tomatoes and a separate alert for First and Last Brand Tomato Sauce products, reinforcing the need for constant vigilance regarding all tomato products.

Topical Authority Entities & LSI Keywords

This critical food safety issue involves numerous entities and related concepts:

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

• *Salmonella*
• Salmonellosis
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Class I Recall
• Williams Farms Repack LLC
• H&C Farms
• Foodborne Illness Outbreak
• Contaminated Produce
• Raw Red Roma Tomatoes
• Raw Red Plum Tomatoes
• Raw Red Round Tomatoes
• Abdominal Pain
• Bloody Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Vulnerable Populations (Infants, Elderly)
• Cross-Contamination
• UPC Codes
• Lot Numbers
• Public Health Alert
• Retail Food Protection
• Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
• Fresh Produce Handling
• Traceability
• State Health Departments
• Gordon Food Service Stores
• Endocarditis
• Arterial Infections
• Arthritis