The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States issued a notice on September 5, stating that public health officials are investigating a Salmonella outbreak that has occurred in multiple states, linked to home delivery meals produced by Metabolic Meals based in Missouri.
The CDC reminder advises, “During the investigation, do not consume the affected Metabolic Meals products.” They further stated, “If these products are found in the refrigerator or freezer, dispose of them or contact the food company.”
This outbreak has resulted in 16 infections across 10 states, with 7 individuals hospitalized, and no reported deaths at present. Some of the affected states include California, Texas, Georgia, and Missouri.
Ingesting food or beverages contaminated with Salmonella bacteria can lead to Salmonella infection. Salmonella bacteria cause approximately 1.35 million infections in the United States each year, with contaminated food (especially poultry) being the primary source for most cases.
There has been no notification of a food recall at this time. Investigations into the source of contamination are ongoing.
The affected Metabolic Meals products were delivered in the week of July 28. The batch numbers corresponding to these products are 25199, 25202, 25205, and 25203.
The labeled “Best By” dates for these meals were in August. Other batch numbers for the meals include 25199, 25202, 25203, 25204, and 25205.
Efforts to obtain comments from Metabolic Foods by the Epoch Times have not yielded a response at the time of publication.
The CDC recommends that individuals refrain from consuming Metabolic Meals products currently and to wash surfaces that have come into contact with these products with hot soapy water.
The organization advises that anyone experiencing diarrhea or a temperature higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 38.9 degrees Celsius) should contact their healthcare provider.
Severe symptoms of Salmonella infection include:
Symptoms typically appear 6 hours to 6 days after bacterial ingestion, with most individuals recovering within 4 to 7 days.
Vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly may experience more severe symptoms, requiring additional treatment or hospitalization.
According to the CDC, antibiotic resistance in Salmonella infections is becoming increasingly common. When antibiotics lose their effectiveness in killing bacteria, treatment options for severely infected patients become more limited.
The organization states, “One way to mitigate antibiotic resistance is the prudent use of antibiotics.”
The use of anti-diarrheal medications like Imodium may prolong Salmonella infection. CDC recommends that infected individuals consult a doctor before taking such medications.
For patients with bloody diarrhea, diarrhea accompanied by fever, or diarrhea lasting more than two days, the use of anti-diarrheal medications is not recommended.
Additionally, CDC advises against children under 12 years old taking anti-diarrheal medications containing bismuth subsalicylate. Such medications include brands like Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate.
Apart from transmission through unwashed hands of diarrhea patients or sexual contact, Salmonella bacteria can also spread through pets and other healthy animals, which may be present in places such as zoos, farms, and markets.
Last month, a Salmonella outbreak related to chicken eggs produced by Country Eggs LLC was reported. On August 27, the company recalled large brown non-caged eggs sold through retail stores and food service distribution channels. This outbreak has resulted in 95 cases across 14 states, with 18 hospitalized individuals.