Cofepris Rules Out Presence of Salmonella Javiana in Jalapeño Pepper Samples Analyzed at a Packing Facility in Nuevo León
The Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) ruled out the presence of Salmonella Javiana in samples of jalapeño peppers analyzed at a packing facility in Nuevo León, after health authorities in the United States warned of a salmonellosis outbreak possibly linked to products originating from Mexico.
The investigation began after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified Cofepris and the National Service for Agro-Alimentary Public Health, Safety, and Quality (Senasica) of the outbreak on July 31.
Cofepris Inspects Packing Facility in Nuevo León
Following the alert, Cofepris personnel conducted a visit on August 5 to a packing facility located in Nuevo León, identified by the FDA as a possible source within the distribution chain.
During the inspection, the traceability of the products was reviewed and possible health-risk factors were identified.
In addition, authorities collected 10 samples of raw material and finished product corresponding to green jalapeño peppers.
All Samples Tested Negative
The samples were analyzed by the Nuevo León State Public Health Laboratory to determine the presence of Salmonella spp.
According to Cofepris, none of the 10 samples tested positive, ruling out the presence of the bacteria in the products analyzed at that packing facility.
Meanwhile, Senasica conducted inspections at production facilities certified under the Contamination Risk Reduction Systems (SRRC), as part of the actions resulting from the U.S. alert.
What Caused the Alert Over Jalapeño Peppers?
The investigation began in the United States after health authorities detected a salmonellosis outbreak allegedly linked to jalapeño peppers distributed by the company Coast Citrus Distributors.
Through supply-chain tracing, the FDA identified a packer in Nuevo León and producers in Sinaloa as possible sources.
This led Mexican authorities to conduct inspections and analyses to determine whether contamination existed in the products.
United States Remains on Alert
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continue to maintain an alert regarding a salmonella outbreak linked to jalapeño peppers originating from Mexico.
So far, the outbreak has totaled 345 cases in 27 U.S. states, of which 36 people have required hospitalization.
More than 200 cases have been recorded between Minnesota and Colorado, although authorities warn that the actual number could be higher because some people recover without seeking medical attention.
What Are the Symptoms of Salmonellosis?
According to the CDC, symptoms can appear between six hours and six days after consuming contaminated food.
The main symptoms include:
- Fever.
- Diarrhea.
- Cramps or stomach pain.
Source: informador
