Public health officials and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating a multistate E. coli O121 outbreak tied to recalled organic carrots from Grimmway Farms. The outbreak has so far resulted in 39 confirmed cases across 18 states, with 15 hospitalizations and one reported death.
Recall Details
On November 16, 2024, Grimmway Farms issued a recall for multiple brands and sizes of organic whole bagged carrots and organic baby carrots. These carrots were distributed under brand names including 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Compliments, Full Circle, Good & Gather, GreenWise, Marketside, Nature’s Promise, O-Organic, President’s Choice, Simple Truth, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, and Wholesome Pantry.
The recall includes:
- Organic Baby Carrots: With best-if-used-by dates between September 11, 2024, and November 12, 2024.
- Whole Organic Carrots: Sold from approximately August 14, 2024, through October 23, 2024. These bags do not have specific best-if-used-by dates.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and freezers for recalled products. If you have any of the affected carrots, do not eat them. Instead, throw them away or return them to the store. Additionally, surfaces and items that may have come into contact with the recalled carrots should be thoroughly washed and sanitized with hot soapy water or run through a dishwasher.
Symptoms of E. coli Infection
E. coli infections can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Symptoms typically appear 3 to 4 days after exposure and usually resolve in 5 to 7 days. However, some cases can lead to serious complications, such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure.
Anyone experiencing severe symptoms, such as high fever, prolonged or bloody diarrhea, vomiting that prevents fluid intake, or signs of dehydration, should seek medical attention immediately.
What Businesses Should Do
Businesses should not sell or serve the recalled organic carrots and must sanitize surfaces and items that may have been exposed to them.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation and are working to prevent further cases. Consumers can visit the CDC or FDA websites for more information and updates.
Find out what’s really in your food. Join The Food Alert from the Bay Area Telegraph to stay informed about shocking recalls, bizarre ingredients, and the latest food science to help keep your family safe and well-fed.
