MEMPHIS, Tenn. (KTHV) - Kroger Delta Division, headquartered in Memphis, TN: With the heightened awareness on Cantaloupes coming out of Indiana, Kroger released a statement today stating that they are not currently procuring cantaloupes grown in southwestern Indiana.
"The Cantaloupes which are currently in our Kroger stores are not from the area of Indiana being investigated." stated Joe Bell, Manager of Marketing and Public Affairs for the Kroger Delta Division. "Cantaloupes in the Kroger's Delta Division, our region, are coming out of California and the investigation involves Indiana grown cantaloupes. At this time the focus is not on any of the suppliers we have used this year. The last Cantaloupe shipments that came out of Indiana, to any of our stores, was in late July," added Joe Bell.
Our highest priority is our customer's safety and the safety of the food we sell. We are working with our suppliers to ensure the continued quality and safety of cantaloupes for our customers. We encourage consumers to follow proper food safety and food handling practices.
Before enjoying any type of melons at home, please follow these simple steps;
• Wash hands and surfaces before and after handling melons
• Chill melons to 41 degrees (usually 24 hours) prior to cutting
• Wash and dry the outer surface before cutting
• Promptly refrigerate any remaining cut melon
Again, Kroger's concern is about the safety and confidence that our Customers have in us. If any Kroger Customer would like to return their Cantaloupe purchase to their local Kroger Store we will be glad to refund their money.