The United States enjoys the world's safest and most bountiful food supply, says Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Jane E. Henney. But food supplies can be contaminated, as with tainted tomatoes containing salmonella.

The FDA traced the pathway of some of these food poisoning tomatoes from the point of purchase or consumption to certain farms in Mexico and Florida. Teams of multi-disciplinary experts were sent to Mexico and Florida to conduct inspections of farms and other critical points on the supply chain where tomatoes may have been contaminated. The FDA will continue to collect samples of tomatoes and conduct trace-back activities.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), since April of 2008, 652 people have reported cases of salmonella. And Texas alone accounts for almost half of those with 293.

What is salmonella food poisoning?

Salmonella food poisoning occurs worldwide and is caused by the salmonella bacterium. The most frequently reported cases of salmonella have been in North America and Europe. Salmonella causes swelling of the lining of the stomach and intestines.  It was named after Daniel Elmer Salmon, an American veterinary pathologist who discovered the organism that causes hog cholera.

Preventing salmonella food poisoning involves sanitizing of food contact surfaces. An effective topical sanitizer against salmonella recommended by many is alcohol. Also, chlorine bleach is frequently used to sanitize surfaces to prevent salmonella.

Food testing strips help determine whether or not food contains bacteria that can cause food poisoning. These products can be used on food, water and hard surfaces.

Need a tomato salmonella lawyer?

If you or a loved one have suffered from salmonella due to another’s negligence, you may be entitled to legal compensation. A tomato salmonella lawyer at Jim S. Adler & Associates can help you reach a fair settlement to cover your medical bills, lost time from work and other financial setbacks. The firm offers a free case evaluation.

Additionally, Jim S. Adler & Associates has offices at City Place Building, 2711 North Haskell Ave., Suite 2100 LB40, Dallas, Texas 75204-2887;  San Pedro Plaza, 7330 San Pedro Ave., Suite 700, San Antonio, Texas 78216-6237; and Bank of America, 12605 East Freeway, Suite 400, Houston, Texas 77015-5619 (serving Channelview, Texas).