Taylor Farms Recalls Jalapeños in 26 States Over Salmonella

Taylor Farms has recalled 26 state‑wide batches of jalapeños that may carry salmonella, a move that follows a recent lettuce outbreak linked to the same grower. The recall covers produce sold under the company’s “Taylor Farms” brand in grocery stores across the United States. The company said the contaminated peppers were harvested from a 1,200‑acre farm in California’s Central Valley and shipped to distributors in late February.

The recall comes after a cyclosporiasis outbreak traced to Taylor Farms lettuce that sickened more than 300 people nationwide in March. The company has been under scrutiny for its handling of produce safety. Salmonella is a serious food‑borne pathogen that can cause fever, cramps and dehydration, especially in young children, the elderly and immunocompromised adults. Because jalapeños are often eaten raw or lightly cooked, a contaminated batch can spread quickly through salads, salsas and packaged meals.

Affected products include fresh and frozen jalapeño slices, whole peppers and pre‑cut pepper mixes sold under the “Taylor Farms” name. The recall notice lists specific lot numbers and distribution codes, and urges consumers to check the date stamps on their packages. The company says no illnesses have yet been linked to the jalapeños, but it is removing the products from shelves to prevent any risk. Retailers have been instructed to pull the items from store aisles and to return unsold stock to the distributor.

Taylor Farms has opened a hotline for customers and is working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration to investigate the source of the contamination. The company says it will conduct a full audit of its growing and harvesting practices and will test all remaining inventory. Consumers are advised to discard any recalled jalapeños and to wash their hands after handling produce. The recall underscores the growing importance of traceability and rigorous testing in the fresh‑produce supply chain.