Salmonella Outbreak Onions: A Comprehensive Overview

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Several large-scale Salmonella outbreaks have been directly linked to onions, causing significant disruptions and raising serious concerns about food safety practices. Let’s examine three prominent examples:

In late 2023, a Salmonella Thompson outbreak, originating from Gills Onions of Oxnard, California, affected 23 states and resulted in 80 reported illnesses, 18 hospitalizations, and tragically, one death. The outbreak was swift, emphasizing the speed at which contaminated produce can spread across the country. Gills Onions acted responsibly by initiating a voluntary recall of diced yellow onions, diced onions & celery, diced mirepoix, and diced red onions with “use-by” dates in August 2023. These products were distributed widely, impacting both foodservice institutions and retail outlets.

The FDA and CDC investigation revealed a critical contamination source: six samples (three water and three environmental) collected from the farm supplying Gills Onions tested positive for Salmonella spp*. Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) confirmed a match between the Salmonella strain in these samples and the outbreak strain. This detailed traceback investigation highlights the importance of meticulous testing and advanced technologies in identifying contamination sources. The outbreak was declared over on December 4, 2023, a testament to the effectiveness of swift action and collaborative efforts between regulatory bodies and the affected company.

The 2021 Salmonella Oranienburg outbreak, traced to whole, fresh red, yellow, and white onions imported from Chihuahua, Mexico, was a significant event impacting 39 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico. This outbreak resulted in a staggering 1,040 illnesses and 260 hospitalizations. The scale of this outbreak underscored the global nature of the food supply chain and the potential for widespread contamination stemming from international imports.

Multiple companies voluntarily recalled onions imported from Chihuahua, Mexico, between July 1 and August 31, 2021. The FDA’s response included enhanced screening of onions imported from the region and FSVP inspections of domestic firms. This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the necessity for robust import controls and rigorous verification programs to safeguard against contaminated produce entering the market.

The 2020 Salmonella Newport outbreak, linked to Thomson International Inc., was the largest Salmonella foodborne illness outbreak in over a decade, impacting both the U.S. and Canada with over 1,600 reported illnesses. The scale of this bi-national outbreak, affecting 48 U.S. states and Canada, highlighted the far-reaching consequences of food contamination.

While the outbreak strain wasn’t found in onion samples, the FDA’s investigation pinpointed potential sources of contamination, including potentially contaminated irrigation water, sheep grazing on adjacent land, animal intrusion, and inadequate cleaning of food contact surfaces. This outbreak, the first U.S. multistate outbreak with a confirmed link to dry bulb onions, underscored the multifaceted nature of contamination and the importance of comprehensive food safety practices at every stage of the supply chain.

The recurring nature of Salmonella outbreaks linked to onions necessitates a proactive and multi-pronged approach to prevent future incidents. Here are key takeaways and actionable advice for businesses and consumers:

The recurring nature of these outbreaks demands a collaborative effort between regulatory bodies, food producers, and consumers. Implementing stringent food safety practices, investing in advanced traceability technologies, and promoting consumer awareness are key steps in minimizing the risk of future Salmonella outbreaks linked to onions. By learning from past mistakes and adopting proactive measures, we can work towards a safer and more secure food supply chain.

At [Your Company Name], we are dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of food safety and mitigate risks associated with Salmonella contamination. Our team of experts provides comprehensive consulting services, including risk assessments, compliance audits, and training programs. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you protect your business and ensure the safety of your products.