San Diego County officials are investigating Ramona Family Naturals Market in connection with a salmonella outbreak that has affected 13 people in the region. The market, located near Collier County Park, is suspected of using raw, unpasteurized eggs in its homemade mayonnaise, which is believed to be the source of the bacterial contamination.
The individuals who fell ill range in age from 27 to 60, with four requiring hospitalization due to severe symptoms. Ramona Family Naturals Market advertises itself as a purveyor of “fresh, natural and organic” products. County officials are collaborating with the market's owner to pinpoint the origin of the potentially contaminated eggs.
In response to the investigation, the market's owner has ceased using raw, unpasteurized eggs in all food preparations and is cooperating with the County’s Environmental Health and Quality and Public Health Services. Health officials are urging anyone who may have consumed food at Ramona Family Naturals Market to monitor their health and consult with a healthcare provider.
Symptoms of salmonellosis typically include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (which may contain blood or mucus), abdominal cramps, and fever. These symptoms usually manifest within 12 to 72 hours after ingestion of contaminated food and can last for four to seven days, though most cases resolve without medical intervention. Individuals who are currently ill or have recently recovered after visiting the market are encouraged to report their experiences to the County Department of Environmental Health Quality. They can be reached by phone at (858) 505-6814, via email at [email protected], or through a designated online form.