ADHS News Release:
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State Public Health Lab Says No Salmonella from Surprise Man’s Home |
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Date: |
FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 19, 2005 |
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| Contact: |
Mary Ehlert, ADHS Public Information: (602) 364-1201; cell (602) 721-0532 |
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The Arizona Department of Health’s (ADHS) State Public Health Lab announced today that samples from the home of a Surprise, Ariz. man, who claimed last week to be making Salmonella and tampering with food products, especially Gerber Baby Juice, are negative for Salmonella bacteria. As a matter of precaution, the State Public Health Lab with assistance from the L.A. County Public Health Lab, also tested several samples from the man’s home for a full spectrum of other bacteria and toxins – all tests were negative.
As part of a multi-agency investigation, FBI and Surprise Police requested the State Public Health Lab to test the substances based on the man’s claims of tampering. As a matter of precaution, authorities asked some stores near the man’s home to remove the Gerber Baby Juice products from their shelves. However, authorities report no evidence confirming food tampering. In addition, there are no reported illnesses related to this case. With tests indicating negative results, all products can be returned to shelves for sale to the public.
“There is no public health threat,” said Susan Gerard, ADHS Director. “We are proud of the assistance our State Public Health Lab can provide to law enforcement in these types of situations. This illustrates ADHS’ responsiveness to the needs of law enforcement in Arizona and to the needs of our citizens.”
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