Sesame Paste Recalled Over Salmonella Concerns, Health Officials Warn

The Environmental Health Division has issued an immediate recall of Tehina Purée de Sésame Bio (Organic Sesame Paste–Tahini) following international reports of salmonella contamination linked to the product.

The alert follows notifications from Rappel Conso and the European Union’s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF), which flagged microbiological non-compliance in a batch of the product under the Bornibus brand. The affected item is packaged in 240g glass jars, marked with batch number 5013HB and a best-before date of January 2027.

The recalled tahini has been distributed in several international markets, including the Virgin Islands. Local retailers have since removed the product from store shelves. Authorities are urging consumers who may have already purchased the product to stop using it immediately and return it to the point of purchase or dispose of it safely.

Health officials caution that consumption of food contaminated with Salmonella spp. may lead to gastrointestinal illness, with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and headaches typically appearing within 48 hours. While most individuals recover without medical intervention, the infection may pose serious risks to young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Residents who experience symptoms after consuming the product are advised to seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider of possible exposure.

The Environmental Health Division is continuing to monitor the situation and said further updates will be provided as needed. For more information, members of the public may contact the Division at (284) 468-5110.