Cilantro Recall Due to Salmonella in California

BERLIN - APRIL 20: A market supplier controlls coriander herbage at the central market on April 20, 2010 in Berlin, Germany. Imports of foreign foods such as Israeli herbage, Thai mangoes, Brazilian papayas, Tanzanian flowers and so on will cease as long as the flight ban continues. This will, inevitably, lead to shortages and eventual non-availability of these items and in the meantime prices will rise dramatically. (Photo by Andreas Rentz/Getty Images) (2010 Getty Images)

Fresh cilantro sold by Tanimura & Antle is being recalled by the California Department of Health because it may contain salmonella.

There have been no illnesses from contaminated cilantro, but the Salinas-based company is issuing a voluntary recall of its product, said Dr. Mark Horton, director of the CDPH.

The cilantro, sold in bunches containing a white twist-tie with blue lettering, has been on store shelves since January 14. They contain the words “Produce of USA, Cilantro #4889 and have the company’s logo.

Symptoms of salmonella include fever, stomach cramps and diarrhea, which may be bloody. Infants, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems are at highest risk for more severe illness.

All contaminated cilantro was pulled from store shelves, but the public health department wants to warn consumers who may have it in their home to throw it out.

Consumers that observe the product being offered for sale are encouraged to report the activity to the CDPH toll-free, complaint line at (800) 495-3232.