Following a deadly E. coli outbreak, bagged organic and baby carrots sold by Grimmway Farms are being recalled in the US, with one death and various hospitalizations reported. Consumers are advised to dispose of affected products.
E. Coli Outbreak Triggers Carrot Recall Across 18 States
E. Coli Outbreak Triggers Carrot Recall Across 18 States
Health authorities proceed with recall of bagged organic carrots linked to a fatal E. coli outbreak, affecting numerous consumers nationwide.
Organic and baby carrots distributed by Grimmway Farms are under recall in the United States due to an alarming outbreak of E. coli infections that has led to one confirmed death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a total of 39 infection cases across 18 states, with at least 15 individuals requiring hospitalization.
Prominent grocery chains such as Trader Joe's, Whole Foods (365 brand), Target (Good & Gather), Walmart (Marketside), and Wegmans are involved in this recall. Health officials indicate that while these products are likely no longer safe for sale in stores, they may still be in consumer homes and should either be discarded or returned to the point of purchase for a refund.
The geographic concentration of the outbreak has primarily affected residents in New York, Minnesota, and Washington, followed by California and Oregon. The recalled organic whole carrots, sold from August 14 to October 23, lack a specified best-if-used-by date, whereas organic baby carrots with best-if-used-by dates from September 11 to November 12 are also affected.
Authorities stress the importance of proper food handling practices; individuals are urged to clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated products. Symptoms of the O121 strain of E. coli, which can include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, typically manifest three to four days after exposure. While most affected individuals recover without medical intervention, some may face severe complications, including serious kidney issues which necessitate hospitalization.
This latest E. coli infection cluster follows a previous outbreak associated with slivered onions on McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers, which left over 100 individuals ill. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had previously recorded one fatality and 34 hospitalizations from that incident, emphasizing the growing concern over food safety in recent months.
