Whole carrots and baby carrots sold at some of the country's largest supermarkets have been recalled over a deadly E. coli outbreak that killed one person and sickened nearly 40 others.
Grimmway Farms on Saturday recalled its organic whole peeled carrots and organic peeled baby carrots because they may have been contaminated with E. coli, which produces Shiga toxin. According to the FDA.
The affected carrots should no longer be available in grocery stores, but produce companies warned that people may still have carrots in their kitchens.
Grimmway Farms has announced a recall after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that its organic carrots may be linked to the outbreak.
“Some infections can cause severe bloody diarrhea symptoms, including hemolytic uremic syndrome, high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, and neurological problems. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting. “This includes,” the FDA warned.
As of Saturday, there had been 39 illnesses and one death related to the outbreak, according to the FDA.
Stores selling the company's produce in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico include Walmart, Target, Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe's, Kroger, Albertsons, Publix and Food Lion.
Canadian chains Loblaws and Compliments were also affected, according to the FDA list.
Grimway Farms has warned customers who purchased organic whole carrots from August 14th to October 23rd not to consume them. The company says organic baby carrots with expiration dates between September 11 and November 12 should also be thrown away.
Grimway Farms said the recalled carrots must be thrown away or returned to stores for a refund.
“If you have these products in your home, do not eat or use them, throw them away, and clean and disinfect surfaces they come in contact with. Consumers who are concerned about getting sick should contact their health care professional. ” the company said.
Mr Grimway added that anyone concerned about the illness should contact a medical professional.
