WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in coordination with public health officials across various states, has issued a Food Safety Alert due to a multi-state E. coli O121 outbreak. The infections have been traced back to several brands of organic whole and baby carrots distributed by Grimmway Farms. This alert underscores the importance of vigilance, as these products may still be present in consumers’ homes despite being recalled from store shelves.
The recall, announced on November 16, 2024, affects numerous sizes and brands of bagged organic carrots, including both baby and whole varieties. The brands under recall include popular names such as 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Trader Joe’s, and Wegmans, among others. Although these carrots are no longer available for purchase, consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and discard any recalled products to prevent further illness.
The outbreak has already impacted 39 individuals across 18 states, resulting in 15 hospitalizations and one fatality. Investigative interviews with affected individuals and traceback analyses have confirmed that the source of the infections is indeed the recalled organic carrots. Given the severity of the situation, the CDC advises against consuming any of these products and recommends returning them to the store or disposing of them safely.
E. coli O121, a Shiga toxin-producing strain, can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, including stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Symptoms typically manifest 3 to 4 days post-exposure and can last up to a week. While most recover without intensive treatment, some cases can escalate, leading to serious complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which requires hospitalization.
Consumers experiencing severe symptoms should promptly seek medical care and inform healthcare providers of their recent dietary history. Moreover, businesses are advised to ensure that all recalled carrot products are removed from their inventories and not used in any capacity.
For additional information on E. coli infections and updates on the outbreak, individuals are encouraged to contact their local health departments. The CDC stated that it remains committed to protecting public health through ongoing surveillance, investigation, and public communication. As the situation develops, further guidance is expected to mitigate risks and safeguard the community.
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