Dole Fruit Co. recalls cantaloupes

WASHINGTON, Feb. 21 (UPI) -- The Dole Fresh Fruit Co. is recalling cantaloupes in the eastern United States and the Canadian province of Quebec because of potential health concerns.

The U.S Food and Drug Administration says some cantaloupes packed Jan. 25-27 by an independent, third-party grower in Costa Rica have tested positive for salmonella. Although no illnesses have been reported, Dole voluntarily has decided to recall all cantaloupes imported from Costa Rica and packed by that grower.

People infected with salmonella might experience a variety of symptoms and illnesses, including fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with salmonella can result in more severe illnesses and potentially can be fatal.

Approximately 6,104 cartons of cantaloupes were distributed to wholesalers across the eastern United States and Quebec Feb. 5-8 for bulk sale in cardboard cartons, with 9, 12 or 15 cantaloupes to a carton. Each carton has a 13-digit number on a white tag pasted to the carton; with the 10th digit being "2".