Organic and baby carrots have been recalled across the United States following a deadly outbreak of E. coli, which has led to one confirmed death and left 15 others hospitalized. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that as of now, there are 39 cases associated with this outbreak spanning across 18 states. The products in question, bagged carrots from Grimmway Farms, were distributed to major grocery chains including Trader Joe's, Whole Foods' 365, Target's Good & Gather, Walmart's Marketside, and Wegmans.
Health officials warn that although many stores may have removed these products from their shelves, consumers could still have them at home. It is advised that anyone possessing these recalled items should dispose of them or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. The areas hardest hit by the outbreak include New York, Minnesota, and Washington, followed by California and Oregon.
The CDC has pointed out that the recalled organic whole carrots do not carry a "best-if-used-by" date on their packaging, but were available between August 14 and October 23. Meanwhile, organic baby carrots with specific “best-if-used-by” dates from September 11 to November 12 are also part of this recall.
Additionally, consumers are encouraged to clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with these products to prevent further illnesses. Symptoms associated with the O121 strain of E. coli typically manifest as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting about three to four days after exposure. While most individuals recover without the need for medical treatment, some may experience severe kidney issues necessitating hospitalization.
This alarming outbreak follows another significant health scare in the US, which was traced back to slivered onions served on McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers, resulting in 104 confirmed illnesses. In that case, the FDA noted that one individual had died and 34 others were hospitalized.
Health officials warn that although many stores may have removed these products from their shelves, consumers could still have them at home. It is advised that anyone possessing these recalled items should dispose of them or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. The areas hardest hit by the outbreak include New York, Minnesota, and Washington, followed by California and Oregon.
The CDC has pointed out that the recalled organic whole carrots do not carry a "best-if-used-by" date on their packaging, but were available between August 14 and October 23. Meanwhile, organic baby carrots with specific “best-if-used-by” dates from September 11 to November 12 are also part of this recall.
Additionally, consumers are encouraged to clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with these products to prevent further illnesses. Symptoms associated with the O121 strain of E. coli typically manifest as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting about three to four days after exposure. While most individuals recover without the need for medical treatment, some may experience severe kidney issues necessitating hospitalization.
This alarming outbreak follows another significant health scare in the US, which was traced back to slivered onions served on McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers, resulting in 104 confirmed illnesses. In that case, the FDA noted that one individual had died and 34 others were hospitalized.
