Pregnant Women Advised to Avoid Rockmelon Following a Salmonella Outbreak

NSW Food Authority has released a statement advising that pregnant women, children and older people should steer clear of rockmelons after a salmonella outbreak.

They said ‘A NSW Health study showed that a number of NSW consumers fell ill with Salmonella Poisoning after eating rockmelons. The study suggests whole and sliced rockmelons could contain Salmonella’

It is thought that the melons have been contaminated with Salmonella because of either water contamination, not being cleaned properly or they have come in contact with fertilisers.

It is unknown at this time how many people have been affected, but there are some simple ways to minimise the risk;

Do not buy the fruit if it is bruised or damaged

Refrigerate within 2 hours of peeling and discard if the rockmelon has been at room temperature for more than two hours

Wash with cool tap water before consumption

While the investigation continues it is advised “FSANZ will continue to work with the state and territory enforcement agencies and the Federal Department of Health and update its advice to consumers’

For more information visit NSW Food Authority