In a nationwide health alert, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a voluntary recall of fresh diced onion products that have been linked to a salmonella outbreak spanning 22 states. The recall was issued for diced onion products from Gills Onions, a California-based producer, after reports of illnesses caused by salmonella contamination.

The recalled products include bags and cups of diced yellow onions, chopped mirepoix blend, diced red onion cups, and diced celery with onions. The FDA's recall comes as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of consumers.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 73 reported cases of salmonella infection between August 2 and September 25. However, it is believed that the number of individuals affected is much higher. Out of the reported cases, 15 people have been hospitalized.

The states affected by the outbreak are Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, Kentucky, and Virginia, with reports suggesting that the outbreak is primarily concentrated in the southern region of the country. The CDC has stated that onions processed at Gills Onions may be contaminated with salmonella and could be causing the illnesses.

The CDC further revealed that 14 out of 19 individuals for whom detailed information was available had consumed diced onions, with six of them specifically consuming Gills Onions in long-term care facilities. This indicates a strong association between the recalled diced onion products and the salmonella outbreak.

Fortunately, the affected products are well past their use-by date, and therefore not currently on grocery store shelves. Both Gills Onions and the FDA are urging consumers who may have purchased the recalled products to discard them immediately.

To ensure food safety, the FDA advises that proper food preparation standards should always be followed. This includes frequently washing hands and surfaces, avoiding cross-contamination, cooking ingredients, especially meat and eggs, to the correct internal temperature, and promptly refrigerating leftovers.

It is crucial for consumers to be aware of the risks associated with the recalled diced onion products and to take necessary precautions to avoid any potential health issues. The FDA and CDC will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

Stay tuned for further developments on this widespread salmonella outbreak linked to recalled diced onions.