Del Monte Vegetable Trays Recall: Understanding the Cyclospora Parasite Outbreak
Parasite contamination in convenience foods highlights the need to monitor recall alerts.
Del Monte Vegetable Trays Recalled Due to Cyclospora Outbreak
In 2018, a major health alert gripped the Midwest United States when hundreds fell ill after consuming Del Monte Fresh Produce vegetable trays contaminated with the Cyclospora parasite. Regulatory agencies including the FDA and CDC launched a comprehensive investigation, resulting in a recall of several popular products and sparking concerns over food safety standards in pre-packaged produce.
Background: The Emergence of the Parasite Outbreak
The outbreak surfaced when state health departments in Wisconsin and Minnesota reported unusual spikes in gastrointestinal illnesses. Laboratory analysis revealed infections by Cyclospora cayetanensis, a microscopic parasite rarely seen on this scale in the region. Early investigations quickly traced the source to Del Monte vegetable trays containing raw broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, celery sticks, and dill dip.
Understanding Cyclospora and Cyclosporiasis
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a single-celled intestinal parasite that causes an infection known as cyclosporiasis. Unlike bacteria and viruses, Cyclospora infections are primarily associated with produce exposed to contaminated water sources.
- Transmission: The parasite is excreted in the stool. It must mature in the environment for 1–2 weeks before becoming infectious, making person-to-person spread rare.
- Common Sources: Historically, outbreaks are linked to fresh produce like leafy greens, berries, and herbs.
Symptoms to Watch For
Cyclosporiasis may cause a range of gastrointestinal symptoms and, in some cases, persist for weeks without treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Watery diarrhea
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Stomach cramps, bloating, and increased gas
- Nausea and fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Vomiting (less common)
Symptoms typically start about 7 days after exposure and, if untreated, may last a few days to more than a month. Some individuals may have recurring symptoms or prolonged fatigue even after other symptoms have resolved.
Extent of the Outbreak: Geographic Distribution and Impact
As the outbreak unfolded, case counts rapidly increased. By September 2018, over 200 laboratory-confirmed cases had been reported, with patients ranging from teens to those in their late 70s. The majority of affected individuals were adults, with the median age reported at 45 years, and approximately 52% female.
| State | Reported Cases |
|---|---|
| Wisconsin | 98+ |
| Minnesota | Multiple |
| Iowa | Multiple |
| Illinois | Multiple |
| Indiana | Multiple |
| Michigan | Multiple |
What others are reading
Note: The above numbers reflect initial and mid-outbreak data; totals varied as new cases were made public.
Details of the Del Monte Recall
To contain the outbreak, Del Monte Fresh Produce announced the recall of several pre-packaged vegetable tray products on June 8, 2018. These products were primarily sold at convenience and grocery chains in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, including retailers such as Kwik Trip, Kwik Star, Demond’s, Sentry, FoodMax Supermarket, and Peapod.
Recalled Del Monte Vegetable Trays Overview
| Product Name | Best By Date | Contents | UPC Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Del Monte 6 oz. Veg Tray | 6/17/2018 | Baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, dill dip | 7 1752472715 2 |
| Del Monte 12 oz. Veg Tray w/dip | 6/17/2018 | Baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, dill dip | 7 1752472518 9 |
| Del Monte 28 oz. Veg Tray w/dip | 6/17/2018 | Baby carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, celery sticks, dill dip | 7 1752478604 3 |
Distribution & Retailers
- The affected trays were distributed across six states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin
- Major retailers included Kwik Trip, Kwik Star, Sentry, FoodMax Supermarket, Demond’s, Peapod, Potash, Meehan’s, and Country Market
- Only products with “Best if Enjoyed By” dates of June 17, 2018 or earlier were involved in the recall
Regulatory and Public Health Response
Both the FDA and CDC initiated joint investigations, analyzing supply chains, tracing distribution, and interviewing affected individuals. Although regulatory agencies could not definitively pinpoint which ingredient carried the parasite, the entire content—including the vegetables and the dip—was scrutinized.
- Ongoing Investigation: FDA’s inquiry focused on supplier records, transport, and processing to determine contamination points.
- CDC Case Tracking: Public health advisories and regular updates alerted consumers and healthcare providers in real-time.
- Previous Years Comparison: Wisconsin, for instance, saw only 23 lab-confirmed Cyclospora cases in 2017 compared to nearly 100 cases in just a few weeks during the 2018 outbreak.
Key Messages from Health Officials
- Consumers with vegetable trays matching the recall’s “best by” dates were urged to dispose of products immediately.
- Washing or rinsing cannot reliably remove the parasite—only discarding the product eliminates risk.
How Consumers Can Protect Themselves
While most outbreaks resolve swiftly after recalls, a Cyclospora infection, if contracted, requires specific clinical care. Consumers are encouraged to:
- Check their pantries and refrigerators for Del Monte trays with the listed UPCs and “best by” dates
- Dispose of any remaining recalled products
- Consult healthcare providers if symptoms develop following consumption
- Monitor official FDA and CDC communications for updated advisories
For future food safety, thoroughly rinse produce, though with some parasites washing may not fully prevent contamination. Purchasing from reputable sources and staying informed about recalls provide additional safeguards.
Treatment and Recovery from Cyclosporiasis
Unlike many diarrheal illnesses, cyclosporiasis cannot be treated with standard antibiotics. The recommended treatment is a specific combination of antibiotics:
- Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX): Typically prescribed as the first-line therapy, this combination effectively eliminates the parasite in most patients.
- For those allergic to sulfa drugs, management often centers on supportive measures—staying hydrated, monitoring symptoms—since alternative medications may be less effective.
Without treatment, symptoms can linger or come and go, significantly impacting daily life and productivity.
The Aftermath: Lessons from the Outbreak
This high-profile event underscored the complexities of modern food chains and the potential risks in pre-packaged produce. Several key lessons and ongoing changes have emerged:
- Traceability Matters: Detailed supply chain records were crucial for quickly locating the source and scope of contaminated products.
- Rapid Communication: Early and transparent updates by health departments limited additional exposure.
- Industry Protocols: Producers and retailers revisited sanitization, sourcing controls, and recall procedures to further minimize risk in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Cyclospora, and how does it infect humans?
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that causes cyclosporiasis when people ingest food or water contaminated with infected fecal matter. Common sources include imported fresh produce and inadequately treated water.
How do I know if my Del Monte vegetable tray is affected?
Check the package’s “best by” date (June 17, 2018, or earlier) and the listed UPC codes. If your tray matches, it is subject to the recall and should be discarded immediately.
Is washing vegetables sufficient to remove the parasite?
No. Cyclospora is resistant to common washing and cleaning techniques. The safest option is to dispose of any recalled product.
What should I do if I develop symptoms after eating a recalled tray?
Contact a healthcare provider. Diagnosis involves a stool test and, if confirmed, the recommended antibiotic course is usually effective. Untreated individuals can suffer prolonged, relapsing symptoms.
Has the outbreak ended?
The outbreak was declared over by September 5, 2018, but continual surveillance and safety measures are ongoing to prevent recurrence.
Why are pre-packaged foods at higher risk?
Pre-packaged foods often contain ingredients sourced from diverse suppliers, increasing cross-contamination risk and making traceability more challenging compared to single-source products.
Conclusion: Staying Safe and Informed
The Del Monte Cyclospora outbreak served as a critical reminder of the food safety challenges in an age of convenience. Staying alert to recall notices and health updates, practicing safe food handling, and seeking prompt medical attention when symptoms arise remain the best strategies for prevention and control.
References
- https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2018/06/del-monte-recalls-veggie-trays-because-of-parasite-outbreak/
- https://www.contagionlive.com/view/multistate-outbreak-of-cyclospora-connected-to-pre-packaged-vegetable-trays
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/a22090001/del-monte-vegetable-trays-parasite-outbreak/
- https://upnorthlive.com/news/local/del-monte-vegetable-trays-recalled-after-parasite-outbreak?photo=1
- https://www.cbsnews.com/news/more-than-200-sickened-in-del-monte-vegetable-outbreak/
- https://www.delish.com/food-news/a22102744/del-monte-veggies-linked-to-parasite-outbreak/
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