On Friday, federal regulators issued a warning about outbreaks of highly drug-resistant salmonella infections across several states, linking them to moringa powder—a plant supplement that has gained traction as a trendy “superfood.”
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently investigating the matter and has identified that the outbreak is associated with specific Rosabella brand capsules distributed nationwide by Ambrosia Brands LLC.
Moringa powder, often used for its medicinal and dietary benefits, comes from the dried leaves of the Moringa oleifera tree, which is often referred to as the “miracle tree” and is native to India.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least seven individuals across different states were infected with the strain from November 7 to January 8.
Reported cases emerged from Washington, Arizona, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee, and Florida.
While three people required hospitalization, thankfully, there have been no reported fatalities.
The FDA noted that they have interviewed three infected individuals, all of whom mentioned consuming the capsules.
Regulatory officials stressed that the Salmonella strains involved in this outbreak are resistant to all common antibiotics typically used to treat such infections.
The FDA announced that Ambrosia Brands LLC has agreed to withdraw certain lots of Rosabella brand moringa powder capsules from circulation.
The affected products were sold nationwide through Ambrosia Brands’ direct-to-consumer websites, Amazon, and TikTok Shop.
However, the company clarified that none of the contaminated lots were available on Amazon and there were no authorized resellers on that platform.
They also indicated that unauthorized third-party sales might have taken place via eBay, Shein, or other online sites.
The recalled products come in 60-count capsule bottles, with expiration dates ranging from March 2027 to November 2027.
Lot codes for these products include 5020591, 5020592, 5020593, 5020594, 5020595, 5020596, 5030246, 5030247, 5030248, 5030249, 5030250, 5030251, and several others up to 5100048.
In a statement, the company expressed its commitment to collaborating with the FDA to explore the potential connection between the Salmonella outbreak and the Rose Vera Moringa Capsules.
They noted that they have ceased all use and purchasing of raw moringa leaf powder from the supplier for the affected lots.
“This recall is being implemented voluntarily, and we take it very seriously,” the statement read. “We apologize for any inconvenience and concern this situation has caused our customers.”
Consumers who purchased these lots are advised to discard the products without consuming, selling, or distributing them.
Salmonella can lead to serious, sometimes fatal infections, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically arise within 12 to 72 hours of ingestion.
Even in otherwise healthy individuals, it can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to more severe conditions like arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis.
