Carrot Recall After E. Coli Outbreak in the US
Carrot Recall Amid E. Coli Outbreak in the US Overview of the Outbreak Raw organic and baby carrots that are sold in supermarkets across the United States have been withdrawn from the market because of an E. coli O121 breakout. The outbreak has been fatal, causing the death of one person, with 15 infected individuals requiring hospitalization and 39 cases confirmed across 18 states in the United States of America according to the CDC.
CHANGED BRANDS AND RETAILERS
The recall includes bagged carrots distributed by Grimmway Farms and sold under various brand names at major retailers, such as:
- Trader Joe’s
- Whole Foods (365 brand)
- Target (Good & Gather)
- Walmart (Marketside)
- Wegmans
- And others
Major Dates and Facts
- Recalled Products:
Whole carrots organic whole carrots and no printed best if used by date between 14 August – 23 October.
Organic baby carrots with the best If used by dates from 11/09/16 to 12/11/16. - Action for Consumers:
Search your home for any of these products. - In this case, consumers should discard the carrots for a refund or return them to the stores.
States Most Affected
Majority of the cases have been confirmed in New York, Minnesota, and Washington with few cases in California and Oregon.
Recommendations from CDC for persons who have difficulty with facemasks
If you think you have used any of the recalled products, wash their surfaces and sanitize them thoroughly.
E.coli symptom starts showing between 3 to 4 days after exposure to the strain and can be identified by the sudden vomiting of blood among other symptoms.
Signs of E. Coli O121 Infection
- Severe stomach cramps
- Diarrhea (possibly bloody)
- Vomiting
Usually the disease cannot be treated with medications, and if a person does not get enough fluid, complications can develop and the patient may be admitted to the hospital with kidney problems.
Other Recent Similar Outbreaks
This comes after another E. coli outbreak associated with slivered onions served in McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers. The latter led to 104 infections, 34 hospitalizations and one fatality reported in October by the FDA.
Take Action
Keep watchful for more signs, discard the carrots which were contaminated, and wash your kitchen. Please refer to the CDC or the FDA web sites for further information and updates.