Health officials are warning residents across the United States about an E. coli outbreak linked to recalled organic carrots. While these products may no longer be in stores, they could still be in homes, posing a serious health risk.
What You Need to Know:
• Cases Reported: 39 across 18 states.
• Hospitalizations: 15.
• Deaths: 1 confirmed.
• Recalled Products: Grimmway Farms organic baby carrots and whole carrots under brands including Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, 365, and others.
Recall Details:
• Baby carrots: Best-if-used-by dates between September 11, 2024, and November 12, 2024.
• Whole carrots: Sold from August 14 to October 23, 2024, without specific expiration dates.
• Retailers include major supermarkets and organic food brands.
Symptoms and Risks: E. coli infections can lead to severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting, with symptoms starting 3-4 days after exposure. In severe cases, it can cause kidney failure. Vulnerable groups include young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
What You Should Do:
• Check your fridge and dispose of recalled carrots immediately.
• Sanitize surfaces and utensils that may have come in contact with the carrots.
• If you experience symptoms such as diarrhea lasting more than three days, bloody stools, or dehydration, seek medical attention.
Recalled Products: Here is the list of recalled products.
Baby Organic Carrots
- Best-if-used-by dates ranging from 9/11/2024 to 11/12/2024
- Brands: 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Compliments, Full Circle, Good & Gather, GreenWise, Grimmway Farms, Marketside, Nature’s Promise, O-Organic, President’s Choice, Raley’s, Simple Truth, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, Wholesome Pantry
Whole Organic Carrots
- Were available for purchase in stores approximately from 8/14/2024 through 10/23/2024
- No best-if-used-by-dates are on the bags of organic whole carrots.
- Brands: 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Compliments, Full Circle, Good & Gather, GreenWise, Marketside, Nature’s Promise, O-Organic, President’s Choice, Simple Truth, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, Wholesome Pantry
Why It Matters: Even though recalled products are likely off store shelves, they may still pose a risk to consumers who purchased them months ago. Awareness is key to preventing further illness.
Looking Ahead: The CDC and public health agencies continue to investigate the outbreak. Updates, including additional recalls or safety measures, are expected as the investigation progresses.
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B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist with 25-years experience in journalism. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is the publisher of The Georgia Sun and a fifth-generation Georgian.
