Public Health Alert Issued On Salame Sticks, RI Officials Warn

RHODE ISLAND — The Rhode Island Department of Health is letting consumers know that a public health alert has been issued for Citterio Italian-style salame sticks because they may be contaminated with Salmonella. According to state health officials, these products were sold nationwide at Trader Joe’s locations and by other retailers.

The Italian-style salame sticks were produced prior to Oct. 25, 2021. The 2-oz packages had “best by” dates up to Jan. 23, 2022 located next to the barcode. The products subject to the public health alert bear establishment number “EST. 4010” inside the USDA mark of inspection.

Consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, one of the most common bacterial foodborne illnesses. The most common symptoms of salmonellosis are diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within six hours to six days after eating the contaminated product. The illness usually lasts four to seven days. Most people recover without treatment.

In some people, however, health experts say the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. Older adults, infants, and persons with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop a severe illness. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact their health care provider.

Some product may be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase, health officials warned.