Another processor recalls fresh-cut cantaloupe product

Fruit Fresh Up Inc. of Depew, N.Y., is recalling approximately 4,800 individual packages of fresh-cut cantaloupe and cut mixed fruit containing cantaloupe because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Fruit Fresh Up Inc. was not advised of the possible contamination of the cantaloupe it acquired from an independent wholesale vendor until last Sept. 27.

The recalled product was distributed in Buffalo, N.Y., and surrounding areas in retail stores and through catering orders.

The fresh-cut fruit subject to this recall was sold between Aug. 31 and Sept. 11 and consisted of the following products: Cantaloupe Chunks, Cantaloupe Slices, Gourmet Fruit Salad, Small Fruit Salad, Small and Large Fruit Salad with Pineapple, Fruit Salad with Kiwi and Fruit Trays. The packaging in which these products were packed has best-if-used-by dates ranging from Sept. 4-11. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with the cantaloupe processed by Fruit Fresh Up Inc. Before cutting whole melons for packaging, Fruit Fresh Up, Inc. uses stringent procedures to minimize the risk of contamination, according to the company. The rind of the whole cantaloupe is thoroughly washed with a sanitizing solution before cutting, and after the seeds are removed, the flesh is washed with this same solution before it is cut or sliced. Despite these procedures, which greatly minimize the risk of contamination, Fruit Fresh Up, Inc. is recalling these products out of an abundance of caution.

The Fruit Fresh Up Inc. recall is part of a larger recall involving cantaloupe traced to Rocky Ford cantaloupes produced by Jensen Farms in Holly, Colo.