Rockmelon linked to salmonella is being removed from distribution, according to Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ).
The news follows detection of Salmonella Hvittingfoss on rockmelon samples from rockmelon grower, Red Dirt, and FSANZ, in consultation with state and territory food regulators, is coordinating a trade recall of whole rockmelons from the Northern Territory grower.
A total of 97 cases for Salmonella Hvittingfoss have been reported across six jurisdictions since 14 June to 3 August, with 49 in NSW, 20 in SA, 9 in WA, 9 in Queensland, 8 in Victoria and 2 in the ACT.
Salmonella Hvittingfoss infection is a relatively uncommon strain, and those mainly affected include children under the age of 5 years and the elderly. There have been no deaths reported.
FSANZ is advising consumers to discard any rockmelon in their home, particularly if it is intended for infants, the elderly, pregnant women or people with compromised immune systems.
