FDA Announces Cilantro Recall

Cilantro grown in Phoenix and distributed by Salinas-based Pacific International Marketing is being recalled because a sample tested positive for salmonella, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, as well as stomach illnesses, according to a news release from the Food and Drug Administration.

The source of the contamination is unknown, and no illnesses had been reported as of Saturday, according to the news release.

The fresh cilantro, which is bundled together with a twist tie with the word "Pacific" printed on it, has a UPC of 33383 80104. Sleeves of fresh cilantro that have been recalled have the UPC 40695 80104. (See photos for images of the twist ties, packaging and barcodes.)

According to the news release from Pacific International Marketing, the cilantro was distributed in California, Arizona, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Indiana, South Carolina and Missouri through various grocery stores.

Customers who purchased cilantro between Nov. 16 and Dec. 10 should return it to the grocery store for a full refund. For more information, call Pacific International Marketing at 831-755-1398 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.