Salmonella Saintpaul Outbreak

Updated: August 28, 2008

Introduction

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has lifted its advice to consumers to avoid eating jalapeño and Serrano peppers grown, harvested or packed in Mexico.

The FDA has taken this action consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) announcement that the Salmonella St. Paul outbreak appears to be over, and that jalapeño peppers and Serrano peppers grown in Mexico and associated with the Salmonella St. Paul outbreak are no longer in circulation in the U.S. market.

In July, the FDA lifted its advice to avoid raw red round, red Roma, and red plum tomatoes.

The FDA continues to work with CDC, Mexican authorities, state regulatory agencies and food industry groups to ensure that Americans continue to enjoy one of the safest food supplies in the world.

Photos of Jalapeno and Serrano Peppers

Salmonella Saintpaul Outbreak Traceback Diagram and Distribution [pdf 102KB]
(Persons with disabilities having problems accessing the above file may email tina.gilliam@fda.hhs.gov or call 301-827-7133 for assistance.)

News Updates

• FDA Extends Consumer Warning on Serrano Peppers from Mexico (July 30)
• U.S. Grown Jalapeño and Serrano Peppers Not Connected to Salmonella Saintpaul Outbreak (July 25)
• Agricola Zaragoza, Inc. Recalls Jalapeno Peppers Because of Possible Health Risk (July 21)
• FDA Lifts Warning About Eating Certain Types of Tomatoes (July 17, 2008)
• Transcripts of FDA Media Briefings on Salmonella Outbreak
• FDA Warns Consumers Nationwide Not to Eat Certain Types of Raw Red Tomatoes (June 7, 2008)
• FDA Warns Consumers in New Mexico and Texas Not to Eat Certain Types of Raw Red Tomatoes (June 3, 2008)

Consumer Health Information

• How the FDA Works to Keep Produce Safe
• Are You Storing Food Safely?

What is FDA Doing to Ensure Produce Safety?

• Tomato Safety Initiative
• Food Protection Plan

Information About Salmonella

• Photos of Jalapeno and Serrano Peppers
• Investigation of Outbreak of Infections Caused by Salmonella Saintpaul (CDC) [en Español]
• General Information: Salmonella (CDC)
• Questions & Answers: Salmonella (CDC)

How Do I Report a Complaint About Fresh Produce?

Please contact your Consumer Complaint Coordinator

Related Links

Vegetables and Melons: Tomatoes (U.S. Dept. of Agriculture)