Two more salmonella cases in Mass. linked to outbreak

(David McNew/Getty Images North America)

Pico de gallo sauce is being eyed as a possible culprit in the salmonella outbreak.

By Globe Staff

State public health officials said today that two more cases of salmonella in the state have been linked to a national outbreak and reminded people to avoid eating certain tomatoes, as well as raw jalapeno and raw serrano peppers.

A total of 26 salmonella cases in Massachusetts have now been linked to the outbreak of more than 1,100 cases nationwide.

Health officials originally thought that tomatoes might be the source of the outbreak, but they are now also looking at other suspects, including the peppers, which are often used in the preparation of dishes such as salsa and pico de gallo.

The US Food and Drug Administration continues to advise people to avoid certain raw red plum, raw red Roma, raw red round tomatoes, and products containing those tomatoes. Experts say tomatoes that are safe to eat include cherry, grape, tomatoes sold with the vine still attached, and tomatoes grown at home. Tomatoes grown in Massachusetts are also considered safe.

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