In a response to a deadly salmonella outbreak linked to cantaloupes, U.S. health officials have issued sweeping recalls and warnings to consumers. Over the past few weeks, multiple brands of whole and pre-sliced cantaloupes have been recalled, and consumers are urged to discard any products containing the melon.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning advising consumers to avoid pre-cut cantaloupes if they are uncertain about the origins of the product. This guidance comes after health officials ordered the recall of whole cantaloupes from various brands, including Malichita, Rudy, and those labeled "4050" or "Product of Mexico/produit du Mexique." Major grocery chains, such as Kroger, Trader Joe's, and Walmart, have heeded the warnings and are removing products containing cantaloupes from their shelves.

The latest recalls have affected not only whole cantaloupes but also pre-cut cantaloupe products. Sprouts Farmers Market and Trader Joe's recently pulled select fresh-cut products made from whole cantaloupes off their shelves. Meanwhile, Cut Fruit Express of Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, issued a recall for various products, including Caribou Coffee Fruit Mix and packages of fruit mix.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), consuming whole fresh cantaloupes with the aforementioned labels is unsafe and should be immediately discarded. Furthermore, the agency warns that products containing pre-cut cantaloupe, such as fruit salads, may pose a salmonella risk to consumers. Since November, major grocery stores, including Kroger, Trader Joe's, Sprouts Farmers Market, Aldi, and Walmart, have issued at least three waves of recalls related to pre-cut cantaloupes.

To ensure safety, the FDA advises consumers to throw away any cantaloupe that cannot be identified by brand. In addition to discarding the melon, the agency recommends washing any surfaces that may have come into contact with the cantaloupe using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.

As the salmonella outbreak continues to pose a serious risk, consumers are being urged to stay vigilant and follow the recall notices and guidance provided by health officials. The FDA is working diligently alongside distributors and retailers to identify and remove any potentially contaminated cantaloupe products from the market.

It is crucial for consumers to prioritize their health and safety during this outbreak. Regularly checking for updates on the recall and taking the necessary precautions will help prevent the spread of salmonella and ensure the well-being of individuals across the country.