If you’ve recently bought tomatoes in Georgia, North Carolina, or South Carolina — stop and check your kitchen. The FDA has just issued its most severe warning over a batch of tomatoes potentially contaminated with salmonella, and it’s not just a routine recall. These tomatoes have officially been labeled a Class I risk, meaning they could cause serious illness or even death.
Here’s the breakdown, plain and simple:
What’s being recalled?
Tomatoes sold under the H&C Farms label between April 23 and April 28. They were packaged and distributed by Williams Farms Repack LLC, based in Lodge, South Carolina.
The recall includes several types and sizes of tomatoes — here are the ones to look for on packaging:
- 5×6 (Lot Code: R4467)
- 6×6 (Lot Codes: R4467, R4470)
- Combo, 25 lb (R4467)
- 4×4, 2-layer (R4467)
- 4×5, 2-layer (R4467)
- 60-count, 2-layer (R4467)
- 60-count, 18 lb loose (R4467, R4470)
- XL, 18 lb loose (R4467)
- 3-count trays (R4467)
If you see any of these lot numbers, do not take the risk — read below for what to do.
What’s the risk?
Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious infections, especially in:
- Children
- Seniors
- People with weakened immune systems
- Pregnant women
Symptoms typically kick in 12 to 72 hours after eating the contaminated food and include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Stomach cramps
While most people recover without treatment, some cases can lead to hospitalization or worse. The FDA warns that freezing or drying the tomatoes won’t kill the bacteria — it survives both dry and wet environments for weeks.
Where were these sold?
Only three states are currently involved:
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
These tomatoes were sold to wholesalers and distributors, so they may have ended up in local restaurants, grocery chains, or meal kits.
What to do if you bought them:
- Do NOT eat them.
- Return them to the store for a full refund, OR
- Throw them out immediately if you’re unsure.
If you’ve already eaten them and are feeling sick, call your healthcare provider and mention this specific recall — especially if you’re in a high-risk group.
Who to contact:
If you have questions, reach out to Williams Farms Repack LLC at 843-866-7707.
This isn’t just another grocery store recall. This is a Class I emergency-level recall — the FDA doesn’t hand those out lightly. If you live in the affected states or recently ate tomatoes from a non-local source, take this seriously.
Check your lot numbers. Talk to your store. Spread the word.
