US-based Rio Queen Citrus is recalling 840 cartons of 12/1 Dry Pints of Mexican cherry tomatoes in 'Karol' brand boxes due to possible Salmonella contamination, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The recall was initiated after a routine testing by FDA revealed the presence of Salmonella in a sample taken from the box bearing lot code '01W45'.

The 'Karol' cherry tomatoes were distributed through retail stores in Texas & South Carolina. The recalled product was originally distributed in a bulk container of 12/1 dry pints in boxes bearing label description 'Distributed by Interstate Fruit & Vegetable'.

These packages were distributed at retail outlets between 10 November 2012 and 19 November 2012.

There have been no reported reactions associated with the consumption of these recalled products. Further distribution of the product has been suspended while FDA and the company are continuing investigations to identify the source of the problem.

Food contaminated with Salmonella may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with this bacterium may cause salmonellosis, a foodborne illness. In young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems, salmonellosis may result in serious and sometimes deadly infections.