Full Breakdown
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Ramona Family Naturals Market in San Diego County
7/30/2026, 4:04:37 AM
Core Event
San Diego County health officials are investigating a salmonellosis outbreak tied to Ramona Family Naturals Market in Ramona, California. Thirteen individuals who ate at the market have been diagnosed with Salmonella infection, and four of those patients required hospitalization as their symptoms worsened.
Background & Context
Ramona Family Naturals Market promotes “fresh, natural and organic” foods and, according to investigators, used raw, unpasteurized eggs in its homemade mayonnaise. Raw eggs are a known vehicle for Salmonella bacteria when they are not properly treated. The market’s location near Collier County Park draws a regular local clientele, many of whom fall within the 27-to-60-year age range of the reported cases.
Data & Statistics
- Confirmed cases: 13
- Age of affected individuals: 27-60 years
- Hospitalizations: 4
- Typical symptom onset: 12 to 72 hours after consumption, lasting four to seven days on average
- Common symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus), abdominal cramps, fever
Official Statements & Responses
San Diego County officials said the market’s owner is cooperating with the County’s Environmental Health and Quality and Public Health Services divisions. The owner has ceased using raw, unpasteurized eggs in all food products sold at the market. Health officials are urging anyone who may have dined at the market to monitor for symptoms and contact their healthcare provider. Reports of illness can be submitted to the County Department of Environmental Health Quality by phone or through an online form.
Why It Matters
The incident underscores the public-health risks associated with serving unpasteurized egg products, especially in establishments that market themselves as natural or organic. Prompt identification of the source and the market’s immediate change in food-handling practices aim to prevent further cases. The outbreak also serves as a reminder for consumers to stay vigilant about food safety warnings and for regulators to enforce strict standards on raw-egg usage.
