Taylor Farms recalls salsa and guacamole over Salmonella risk

Taylor Farms has recalled more than a dozen prepared food items, including salsa and guacamole, after tests found possible contamination with Salmonella in its jalapeños.

The recall covers products sold under the Taylor Farms brand, including salsa verde and guacamole cups, distributed to major retailers. Salmonella can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting, sometimes requiring hospitalization. The company says it has received no reports of illness so far but is acting out of caution.

The contamination likely stems from the jalapeños used in the affected products. Federal health officials have linked recent Salmonella outbreaks to imported jalapeños from Mexico, where farming conditions and supply chains can increase bacterial risks. Taylor Farms, a major supplier of fresh-cut vegetables and dips, has halted production of the recalled items and is working with suppliers to trace the source of the contamination.

The recall comes as food safety regulators step up inspections of produce imports amid rising concerns about cross-border contamination. Consumers who have purchased the recalled items should discard them or return them for a refund. Taylor Farms has not specified how long the recall will last. The company’s quick response may limit further spread, but the incident highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in the food supply chain, especially for fresh produce. Health experts warn that even small outbreaks can escalate if contaminated food reaches vulnerable populations.