Salmonella Montevideo Outbreak Causes Infections in 42 States

Federal investigators say that at least 213 people in 42 states have experienced food poisoning as part of a Salmonella Montevideo outbreak linked to pepper-coated salami.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the new numbers on February 4, indicating that the first reports track back to July 1, 2009. All of the 213 cases have been genetically connected to the same strain of Salmonella serotype Montevideo infections linked to recalled salami produced by Daniele International, Inc.

A pepper-crusted salami recall was issued on January 23 for approximately 1.24 million pounds of salami/salame and other Italian sausage products. The recalled salami was sold at Costco and other national retailers under the Daniele, Black Bear, Dietz & Watson and Boars Head labels. Last week, Daniele International expanded their salmonella recall by 17,235 pounds after Illinois inspectors found contamination in more unopened packages. The additional recalled items include Daniele Hot Sopressata Calabrese, Daniele Spressata Calabrese and Boar’s Head Brand Hot Sopressata Calabrese.

At least two Salmonella Montevideo lawsuits have already been filed against Daniele International over sicknesses caused by the tainted salami.

Rhode Island health inspectors, who examined the Daniele International processing facility, say they found an open package of black pepper which was contaminated with the same strain of salmonella. However, the FDA has been unable to confirm that the pepper is the source of the contamination and continues to investigate. The suppliers of the black pepper have voluntarily placed their product on hold while the investigation continues, according to an updated statement by the FDA.

Salmonella Montevideo poisoning can cause symptoms such as abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, bloody diarrhea and fever. While symptoms tend to resolve within a few days or weeks for most healthy adults, the elderly, young children and those with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to severe, and potentially life-threatening, infections.