Timco Worldwide Inc. Recalls Cantaloupe Because of Possible Health Risk

15/11/06 Timco Worldwide Inc. of Woodland, CA is voluntarily recalling its Sundia brand cantaloupe, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which 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.

Five hundred and four (504) cartons of cantaloupe were distributed in Phoenix, Arizona; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Dallas, Texas; and Okeechobee, Florida between October 30th and November 6th, 2006. The cantaloupe was distributed for sale in bulk in cardboard cartons, numbering either 9 or 15 cantaloupes to a carton, under the Sundia label. The cantaloupes are straw- colored on the exterior, with orange flesh. No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was a result of a routine sampling program by the US Food and Drug Administration on October 30, 2006. That testing revealed that a portion of the finished products contained the bacteria. Timco Worldwide Inc. ceased the distribution of this product as soon as FDA apprised the company of the test results. The FDA and Timco Worldwide continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.

Consumers who have purchased Sundia cantaloupes are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.