In cooperation with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Tropicale Foods, a California-based company, has issued a voluntary recall for 5,224 units of their Helados Mexico Mini Cream Variety Pack. The reason behind this recall is the potential for Salmonella contamination in the product.
Background
The recall was initiated after product testing showed the potential for Salmonella contamination in the mango bars of the variety pack.
Distribution
The affected product was distributed to retail locations in the following states:
- Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wisconsin, limited locations in Europe
Product Details
- Product Name: Helados Mexico Mini Cream Variety Pack
- Packaging: Rectangular paper-based boxes
- Best By Date: “MO Best By 10/11/2025”
- Contaminated Component: Mango bars within the variety pack
What Consumers Should Do
- Check their freezer for the specified products
- Do not consume the mango bars
- Discard the affected product immediately
- For additional questions or concerns, contact Tropicale Foods at 909-563-3090 between 8am and 5pm Pacific Time, Monday through Friday
Potential Health Risks
Fortunately, no illnesses have been reported to date but consumers should check with their healthcare providers if they have any concerns about potential Salmonella exposure and also monitor for any symptoms of infection. Salmonella contamination is the most frequently reported cause of foodborne illness. A Salmonella outbreak from contaminated cantaloupe in 2023 sickened at least 230 people, caused 96 hospitalizations, and resulted in 3 deaths, as previously reported in Food Poisoning News.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections. Vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible. A Salmonella infection may present suddenly and include the following symptoms that include, but are not limited to:
- Gastroenteritis
- Diarrhea, Vomiting, and/or Nausea
- Typhoid Fever
- Pain, Fever, Abdominal Tenderness, Bloody Stools, and Severe Diarrhea
- Bacteremia
- Infections in other parts of the body other than the initial site of contamination
Stay Informed
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said that the recall highlights the importance of swift action on behalf of the government and food suppliers to minimize, if not eliminate, the risk of consumer danger.
As a precautionary measure, consumers should regularly check FDA.gov or sites like Food Poisoning News to stay informed about potential health risks associated with food recalls.
