Sorry for my prolonged absence from the blog. Lots of stuff in the news lately, though -- I will be back more regularly with plenty of interesting items. You have most likely heard about the Salmonella outbreak related to consumption of tomatoes. Texas has had the highest number of cases in the country, and Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas has reported several local cases. The
CDC website is always my favorite source for accurate information, and I have included their current advice below. I also wanted to share a picture of my personal solution for the tomato problem - a single organic heirloom Brandywine tomato plant in my backyard! Unfortunately, I only have one lonely tomato on my one lonely tomato plant so far. I will keep you posted as we get closer to harvest.
The CDC's current advice about eating tomatoes:
At this time, consumers should avoid eating or handling raw red plum, red Roma, and round red tomatoes. Consumers may continue to buy cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, tomatoes with the vine still attached, and tomatoes grown at home — all of which do not appear to be involved in the outbreak.
Consumers everywhere are advised to:
- Refrigerate within 2 hours or discard cut, peeled, or cooked tomatoes, or products made from tomatoes, such as salsa.
- Avoid purchasing bruised or damaged tomatoes and discard any that appear spoiled.
- Thoroughly wash all tomatoes under running water. Do not wash tomatoes in a tub or sink filled with water.
- Keep tomatoes that will be consumed raw separate from raw meats, raw seafood, and raw produce items.
- Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and counter tops with hot water and soap when switching between types of food products.