A deadly outbreak of E. coli has been traced to bagged organic carrots, leaving one person dead and 39 others infected across 18 U.S. states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 15 people required hospitalization.
Products Recalled by Grimmway Farms
The outbreak has been linked to organic whole and baby carrots distributed by Grimmway Farms, based in Bakersfield, California. The recalled products were sold under various brand names, including:
– 365
– Cal-Organic
– Nature’s Promise
– O-Organics
– Trader Joe’s
– Wegmans
The carrots, which are no longer available in stores, had best-by dates ranging from September 11 to November 12, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
CDC Warning: Check Your Fridge
The CDC urges consumers to check their refrigerators and dispose of any bagged organic carrots fitting the recall description. Although the products have been pulled from shelves, they may still be in homes.
Symptoms and Risks of E. Coli
E. coli infection symptoms typically appear 3-4 days after exposure and include:
– Severe stomach cramps
– Bloody diarrhea
– Vomiting
While most people recover within a week, the infection can be severe or fatal for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider of recent food consumption.
Recent E. Coli Outbreaks Highlight Food Safety Concerns
This outbreak is the latest in a series of E. coli incidents. Recent cases include:
– McDonald’s Slivered Onions: Over 100 sickened in October.
– Lettuce in the UK: Linked to 275 infections and one death in June.
– Organic Walnuts in the U.S.: Caused E. coli infections in 19 states in April.
Despite these events, experts maintain that the overall food supply remains safe. However, they acknowledge the need for more progress in reducing E. coli infections.