How is the cause or source of a Salmonella outbreak determined?
Once an outbreak is detected and the states and the CDC have determined that two or more cases of the same disease share a common exposure, the FDA conducts a “traceback” investigation to determine the source of the contamination. The product is tracked from the point of purchase or service through each point in the distribution chain to find the source of the contamination. At each point in the distribution chain, an environmental investigation is performed to determine whether the contamination may have occurred at that point and, if so, how it occurred. When outbreak illnesses occur across multiple states, the contamination often occurred at, or near, the original source of the product, such as the growing or packing area. In addition to helping contain current outbreaks, information gained from traceback and other investigations can help scientists develop measures to prevent future occurrences. From farm to table, where in the process are tomatoes most likely to become contaminate
