- Date Issued: May 2, 2025
- Announced by: FDA on May 3, 2025
- Company Name: Ray & Mascari Inc.
- Product: 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes
- Issue: Possible contamination with Salmonella
- Packaging Details: 20 oz (567g) plastic clamshells, UPC 7 96553 20062 1
- Action: Do not eat — discard immediately if you have this product
Stick around to find out more about this recall—Shall we learn more about this?
What happened?
Ray & Mascari Inc., a tomato supplier based in Indianapolis, Indiana, has issued a voluntary recall of their 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes after receiving word from grower Hanshaw & Capling Farms in Immokalee, Florida. The issue? Possible contamination with Salmonella, a bacteria you definitely don’t want to invite to your dinner table.
The affected tomatoes were repackaged and sold in 20 oz clamshell containers marked with Lot# RM250424 15250B or RM250427 15250B. These potentially risky tomatoes were distributed across multiple states via Gordon Food Service Stores.
Here’s the juicy breakdown:
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Best By / Lot# | Issue |
Ray & Mascari Inc. | Vine Ripe Tomatoes (4-count) | 20 oz | 7 96553 20062 1 | RM250424 15250B, RM250427 15250B | Salmonella risk |
What caused the issue?
The root of the recall traces back to a Salmonella contamination concern identified by Hanshaw & Capling Farms, the Florida-based grower that supplied tomatoes to Ray & Mascari Inc. After receiving and repacking these tomatoes into 4-count clamshell containers, Ray & Mascari was notified that the lot may be affected, triggering a voluntary recall.
While no illnesses have been reported yet, the risk is real.
Why Salmonella is a big deal
Salmonella is a bacterium that, when ingested, can cause serious gastrointestinal illness and more severe complications, especially in certain populations. It’s most commonly contracted through contaminated food or water—and raw produce, like tomatoes, is a prime suspect when cross-contamination happens at the farm or packing facility.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection include:
- Fever
- Diarrhea (which can be bloody)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Headache
- In severe cases: blood infections, endocarditis, and infected aneurysms
Symptoms typically appear 6 to 72 hours after exposure and can last 4 to 7 days. Most healthy individuals recover without treatment, but others may need hospitalization.
Who’s most at risk?
- Children under 5 years old
- Seniors (65+)
- Pregnant individuals
- People with compromised immune systems (e.g., undergoing cancer treatment or living with chronic illness)
Even one contaminated tomato can lead to serious health issues in vulnerable individuals.
10 common questions you may have
1. Is it safe to wash and eat the recalled tomatoes?
Nope. Salmonella contamination can’t be removed by washing—it can hide in crevices and survive on the surface. Toss them.
2. I already ate some—should I be worried?
If you experience any symptoms like fever, diarrhea, or abdominal pain within 72 hours, contact a healthcare provider. Otherwise, stay alert and hydrated.
3. How do I check if I have the recalled tomatoes?
Look for a 20 oz clamshell labeled “VINE RIPE TOMATOES”, UPC 7 96553 20062 1, and Lot# RM250424 15250B or RM250427 15250B.
4. Can I return the tomatoes to the store for a refund?
Ray & Mascari recommends discarding the tomatoes. Some retailers may offer refunds—contact your store directly.
5. What states were the tomatoes sold in?
They were distributed in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.
6. Have any illnesses been reported?
Not yet, but Salmonella can take time to show symptoms—so the warning is precautionary but serious.
7. Can I compost the tomatoes instead of tossing them?
Not recommended. Composting could potentially spread the bacteria. Seal and dispose of them in the trash.
8. How did the contamination happen?
Contamination likely occurred at the farm level during harvest or packaging. Hanshaw & Capling Farms identified the issue and notified Ray & Mascari.
9. Is this Ray & Mascari’s fault?
Not directly. They received the affected produce from a supplier, but acted quickly by recalling the product and alerting customers.
10. Where can I get more information or report symptoms?
Call Ray & Mascari Inc. at 1-317-637-0234, Monday through Saturday, 6am–5pm EST.
Here’s what you should do
Here’s how to take action if you think you’ve got these rogue tomatoes in your kitchen:
- Check the Label: Look for UPC 7 96553 20062 1 and Lot# RM250424 15250B or RM250427 15250B
- Toss It: Do not eat the tomatoes—discard them safely
- Contact for Info: Ray & Mascari Inc. can be reached at 1-317-637-0234, Monday–Saturday, 6am–5pm EST
Behind the brand
Ray & Mascari Inc. is a produce supplier known for vine-ripe tomatoes and other fresh goods, headquartered in Indianapolis. While they’re no strangers to the produce aisle, this recall is one of the few on record for the brand. The real root of the issue lies with Hanshaw & Capling Farms, which initiated the recall.
This isn’t the only Salmonella scare recently. Earlier this year, check out our coverage on:
- On May 2, 2025, Williams Farms Repack LLC issued a voluntary recall for several tomato products under the H&C Farms and Williams Farms Repack labels after being notified by Southeast Tomato Distributors of a potential Salmonella contamination.
- On February 6, Turkana Food Inc. from Kenilworth, NJ, recalled 858 cases OF Aleppo Tahini Sesame Paste because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
“Food safety isn’t optional—it’s essential, especially when dealing with everyday produce like tomatoes. This recall is a powerful reminder that any lapse in safety protocols, even early in the supply chain, can put consumers at risk. The industry must remain vigilant, from farm to repack, with rigorous testing, clear communication, and responsible sourcing to keep our food system safe—especially for those most vulnerable.” said Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.
Ensuring safe eats
This recall underscores just how quickly food safety concerns can ripple across the supply chain—from grower to packer to retailer to your refrigerator. While no illnesses have been reported, it’s a powerful reminder of the need for rigorous sourcing standards and transparent communication in the bulk ingredient and produce industries.
Brands, especially those in co-packing or private label partnerships, must stay vigilant. A single misstep—like this potential Salmonella contamination—can throw a wrench into your operations and damage trust.
Quick recap:
- Toss any affected tomatoes
- Call Ray & Mascari if needed
- And double-check your produce stock if you’re a distributor or supplier
Want to avoid food safety drama in your supply chain? Let’s talk! Our team at Source86 is here to help you source high-quality, safe bulk ingredients—with fewer surprises and more peace of mind. For more insights, feel free to contact us or explore our range of ingredients!
