The CDC is warning of a deadly E. coli outbreak linked to organic carrots. It has impacted 39 people across 18 states, causing 15 hospitalizations and one death. The strain of E. coli involved is Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O121, which can lead to serious symptoms like severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. In extreme cases, it can cause kidney failure.
Grimmway Farms, the producer of the carrots, issued a recall for several sizes and brands of bagged organic baby and whole carrots. These carrots were sold under well-known labels like Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, and Simple Truth. This recall is a critical step in preventing further spread of the contamination.
Here are the brands involved in the E. coli outbreak linked to organic carrots:
Organic Whole Carrots:
- 365 (Whole Foods)
- Bunny Luv
- Cal-Organic
- Compliments
- Full Circle
- Good & Gather (Target)
- GreenWise (Publix)
- Marketside (Walmart)
- Nature’s Promise
- O-Organics
- President’s Choice (Loblaws)
- Simple Truth (Kroger)
- Trader Joe’s
- Wegmans
- Wholesome Pantry
Organic Baby Carrots:
- 365 (Whole Foods)
- Bunny Luv
- Cal-Organic
- Compliments
- Full Circle
- Good & Gather (Target)
- GreenWise (Publix)
- Grimmway Farms
- Kroger
- LIDL
- Marketside (Walmart)
- Nature’s Promise
- O-Organics
- President’s Choice (Loblaws)
- Raley’s
- Simple Truth (Kroger)
- Sprouts
- Trader Joe’s
- Wegmans
- Wholesome Pantry
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli is a dangerous bacteria that produces toxins capable of harming your body. The toxins can damage the lining of your intestines, leading to symptoms that can range from mild stomach discomfort to life-threatening conditions, especially in young children and the elderly. Kidney failure, known as hemolytic uremic syndrome, is one of the most severe complications.
Consumers across the affected states are urged to check their homes for any recalled carrots and immediately dispose of them. If you have any of these products, especially if they were purchased recently from the brands listed, do not consume them.
Sources:
CDC – E. coli Outbreak Linked to Organic Carrots: https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/outbreaks/e-coli-O121.html
Yahoo News – E. coli outbreak linked to organic carrots leaves 1 dead, 15 hospitalized: https://news.yahoo.com/news/e-coli-outbreak-linked-organic-231900435.html
MSN News – Deadly E. coli outbreak linked to organic carrots sold in multiple states including California: https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/nutrition/deadly-e-coli-outbreak-linked-to-organic-carrots-sold-in-multiple-states-including-california/ar-AA1ufzXh