Thousands of cantaloupes distributed in four U.S. states have been linked to a recall that the Food and Drug Administration has now classified as its most serious category. The action affects fruit produced by Ayco Farms and stems from concerns about possible Salmonella contamination.
The recall was first announced in March and involves 8,302 cartons of whole fresh cantaloupes. Although the products are no longer available in stores, health officials warn that some consumers may still have the fruit in freezers or storage.
The FDA upgraded the recall to a Class I designation on April 20, 2026. According to the agency, a Class I recall applies when there is a reasonable probability that exposure to a product could cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
The affected cantaloupes were distributed in California, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania between December 12, 2025, and January 16, 2026. The fruit was sold whole, wrapped in food-safe plastic bags, and packed in cardboard cartons containing six to 12 melons.
Recall Affects More Than 8,000 Cartons Across Four States
According to FDA recall records, the recalled product consisted of fresh whole cantaloupes sold under the Ayco brand. The recall was initiated voluntarily by Ayco Farms Inc. on March 24, 2026, due to the potential presence of Salmonella.
The FDA identified 8,302 cartons as part of the recall and listed multiple affected lot numbers, including GC26257, GC26270, GC26288, GC26289, GC26290, GC26294, GC26299, GC26301, GC26307, GC26308, GC26311, GC26312, GC26313, GC26318, GC26325, GC26326, GC26328, SCX2601, SCX2606, SCX2611, SCX2614, SCX2622, SCX2625, SCX2629, SCX2633, SGC2601, SGC2602, and SGC2607.
The FDA assigned recall number H-0668-2026 and later updated the classification to Class I. Agency records also show that the recall status was ultimately marked as terminated on May 1, 2026.
Neither the FDA nor Ayco Farms identified the specific retail locations where the cantaloupes were sold. According to company distribution information cited in the recall notice, no foreign shipments were involved and no products were distributed to government agencies.
Health Officials Warn Consumers Not to Eat Affected Fruit
Salmonella infections can cause a range of symptoms, including diarrhea, fever, headache, and abdominal cramps. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms generally appear between 12 and 72 hours after consuming contaminated food.
The CDC notes that dehydration is a major concern during infection. The agency also states that some people may experience diarrhea lasting several months. In a smaller number of cases, individuals can develop reactive arthritis, a condition involving joint pain that may persist for months or even years and can lead to chronic arthritis.
Health experts cited by HealthDay and Health.com advised consumers not to eat any recalled cantaloupe. They recommend discarding affected fruit and disinfecting any surfaces that may have come into contact with it.
Ayco Farms stated that all product and environmental samples tested negative for Salmonella Newport and reported that it had received no illness complaints from customers or consumers. Even so, the FDA maintained the Class I designation after reviewing the recall, reflecting the agency’s assessment of the potential health risk associated with the affected products.
