A tomato recall across three U.S. states has been classified as a Class I health risk by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the most serious category for food safety alerts. The tomatoes in question may be contaminated with Salmonella, a potentially dangerous bacterium that can cause severe foodborne illness.

Which Tomatoes Are Affected?

The recall involves whole tomatoes packed by Williams Farms Repack LLC, sold under the Williams Farms Repack and H&C Farms brands. These tomatoes were distributed in nine different size and packaging formats, all tied to lot codes R4467 and R4470.

Here’s a list of the affected products:

  • 5x6, 25 lbs — Lot code: R4467

  • 6x6, 25 lbs — Lot codes: R4467, R4470

  • Combo, 25 lbs — Lot code: R4467

  • 4x4, 2-layer — Lot code: R4467

  • 4x5, 2-layer — Lot code: R4467

  • 60 count, 2-layer — Lot code: R4467

  • 60 count, 18 lbs loose — Lot codes: R4467, R4470

  • XL, 18 lbs loose — Lot code: R4467

  • 3-count tray pack — UPC: 0 33383 65504 8 — Lot code: R4467

If you have recently purchased tomatoes in any of these packaging types, check the lot codes and UPC labels carefully.

Which States Received the Recalled Tomatoes?

According to the FDA, the recalled tomatoes were shipped to wholesalers and distributors in the following states:

  • Georgia

  • North Carolina

  • South Carolina

While no illnesses have been officially reported at the time of writing, the FDA’s Class I designation means there is a “reasonable probability” that consuming these products could cause serious health issues or even death.

What Is Salmonella and Why Is It Dangerous?

Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can contaminate food and lead to an infection known as salmonellosis. While symptoms often resolve on their own within a few days in healthy individuals, the infection can be more serious—and even life-threatening—for certain groups.

Common symptoms of Salmonella infection include:

  • Watery or bloody diarrhea

  • Stomach cramps

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Fever (sometimes over 102°F or 39°C)

Severe or prolonged symptoms may include:

  • Diarrhea or vomiting that lasts more than 48 hours

  • Blood in stool or urine

  • Signs of dehydration (dark urine, dry mouth, dizziness)

  • Fatigue, confusion, or difficulty staying awake

At higher risk:

  • Infants and young children

  • Elderly adults

  • People with weakened immune systems (e.g., those with chronic illness, undergoing chemotherapy, or on immunosuppressive medications)

What You Should Do Now

If you believe you have purchased or consumed any of the recalled tomatoes, follow these steps:

  1. Check packaging for the brand name, lot codes, and UPC if available.

  2. Throw away any affected tomatoes immediately. Do not attempt to wash or cook them, as this may not remove bacteria.

  3. Clean and sanitize any surfaces (cutting boards, containers, kitchen counters) that may have come in contact with the tomatoes.

  4. Monitor for symptoms of Salmonella infection for at least 72 hours if you’ve eaten the recalled tomatoes.

When to seek medical care:

Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you or a family member shows any signs of a severe Salmonella infection, especially high fever, prolonged symptoms, or signs of dehydration.

Why the FDA Gave This a Class I Warning

The FDA assigns Class I recall status only when a product poses a serious and immediate threat to human health. This type of recall is used in the most critical cases where there’s a likelihood of life-threatening illness or injury.

Given the widespread distribution and potential for serious Salmonella complications, the agency is urging both consumers and retailers to take this recall seriously.

Final Thoughts

If you live in Georgia, North Carolina, or South Carolina and have recently purchased tomatoes, take a moment to double-check your packaging. While Salmonella infections are often mild, they can lead to serious health complications, especially for vulnerable individuals.

By staying informed and acting quickly, you can help protect yourself and your family from foodborne illness. For the most current updates, visit the FDA website and check their food recall list regularly.