Mediaboss Marketing

The phrase 'killer cantaloupes' may be reminiscent of the cult horror film Attack of the Killer Tomatoes, but this particular fruit poses a real threat. A penchant for eating cantaloupes has been responsible for two recent deaths and a horde of illnesses so far.

Cantaloupes grown on an Indiana farm have infected at least 141 people with the Typhimurium strain of salmonella throughout 20 states. Although salmonella usually presents a danger to humans in undercooked meat, some types of the virus can linger on the surface of fruits.

Although most salmonella infections result in diarrhea, vomiting and cramps, it can be fatal if the infection spreads from the intestine into other areas of the body, such as the bloodstream. That is what happened to two unfortunate cantaloupe consumers in Kentucky.

The Indiana farm which grew the dangerous cantaloupes is currently under investigation by numerous agencies from the local to federal level. Some of the potential causes of salmonella finding its way to fruits are the use of uncomposted manure, contaminated water or even the droppings of birds and animals.

Although salmonella only lingers on the surface of melons like cantaloupes, it is far too simple to contaminate the inside of the fruit when slicing it with a knife. Simply washing the outside of fruits with porous exteriors like cantaloupes may not be enough to prevent the risk of infection. It is a scary thought that even fresh fruit can pose a health risk, but it is an unfortunate reality.

In order to prevent further exposure to the killer cantaloupes, the Center for Disease Control urges consumers to check the source of the melons before eating them. "If no sticker is present, consumers should inquire about the source. When in doubt, throw it out."

You have successfully submitted a report for this post.

See the original post here:
Killer Cantaloupes Linked to Indiana Farm