After an August Salmonella outbreak linked to imported mangoes sickened 127 people, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decided to step up inspections of the fruit. Now, the mango industry is mango is trying to figure out best food safety protocols.
In a letter to mango producers, National Mango Board President William Watson said a risk assessment was scheduled to begin later this month. “Food safety expert, Sergio Nieto-Montenegro, Ph.D. of Hispanic Workforce Management will visit facilities in the producing countries as well as receiving warehouses here in the U.S. to identify opportunities for improvement. He will work with each of the FMOs in the producing countries, as well as government officials, to get the most complete input. This report along with industry input will be used as a guide to determine the next steps for the best food safety protocol for mangos.”
The Salmonella outbreak was linked to Daniella brand mangoes imported from Mexico. At least 127 people in 15 states were infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Braenderup after eating the mangoes. Thirty three of them were so ill they requires hospitalization. A second strain of Salmonella linked to the mangoes sickened 16 people in three states.
Daniella was placed on an FDA import alert on September 13, meaning no fruit from the company can enter this country without proof from an independent inspector that they are free of Salmonella.
