The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a food safety alert on Sunday, November 17, stating that a deadly E. coli outbreak in 18 states in the US is linked to organic carrots.
Since early September, at least 39 cases related to organic carrots and E. coli have been identified, with 15 hospitalizations and 1 death, according to the CDC.
Interviews and tracking investigations of patients revealed that organic carrots produced by Grimmway Farms, based in Bakersfield, California, were identified as the source of contamination.
The company has recalled the organic carrots linked to the outbreak, which include various brands and packaging formats, such as whole carrots and baby carrots.
Although these products are no longer being sold, some consumers may still have them at home. The CDC advises consumers not to consume the recalled carrots and to check their refrigerators and discard them. Items and surfaces that may have come into contact with these carrots should be cleaned with hot soapy water or in a dishwasher.
Most individuals infected with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli will experience severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting, typically starting three to four days after ingesting the bacteria. While most people recover without treatment within five to seven days, some may develop serious kidney problems (hemolytic uremic syndrome or HUS) requiring hospitalization.
The CDC notes that children under 5, adults aged 65 and older, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infection.
Affected whole carrots from the recall were sold between August 14 and October 23, with no expiration dates labeled. However, baby carrots had expiration dates ranging from September 11 to November 12 this year.
The affected products were sold under various brands including Grimmway Farms, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, Good & Gather, among others. To view specific brands and packaging details of the recall products, please click on the CDC website link.
Grimmway Farms stated that their food safety team is working with suppliers and health authorities to address the outbreak.
Jeff Huckaby, President and CEO of Grimmway Farms, emphasized the company’s commitment to ensuring product safety and quality in a statement, saying, “We take our role in ensuring the safety and quality of our products very seriously. The health of our customers and the reliability of our products are our top priorities, and we are conducting a thorough review of our planting, harvesting, and processing practices.”