Whole Foods products pulled from shelves in relation to Grimmway Farms carrots due to E. coli fears
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provided an update on Thursday regarding the recall of organic carrots from Grimmway Farms linked to possible E. coli contamination.
The FDA has announced that two different recalls have been launched by companies that either utilized or repackaged carrots sourced from Grimmway Farms. Fortunately, there have been no reported cases of E. coli illness connected to these recalls.
There are currently no new reported instances of E. coli illnesses from the initial recall, which still stands at one fatality, 15 people hospitalized, and a total of 39 reported cases.
The Grimmway Farms carrots that are part of this recall are no longer available in retail outlets, but they may still be present in some consumers’ freezers, as indicated by the FDA.
Here’s the latest information regarding the carrot recall involving Grimmway Farms.
Recall of Kickin’ Carrot Falafel Bites
Fabalish Inc. based in New Jersey is recalling its Kickin’ Carrot Falafel Bites, which were sold directly by the company and distributed in several states:
- California
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Massachusetts
- Montana
- Nebraska
- New Hampshire
- New York
- Ohio
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Washington
The recalled orange boxes, weighing 10 ounces, have the lot code 260925 on one of the side flaps.
To date, no illnesses have been linked to this specific recall as of Wednesday.
Whole Foods Carrot Recall
F&S Fresh Foods from California is executing a recall of both Whole Foods Market 15 oz. Organic Carrot Sticks and Whole Foods Market 15 oz. Organic Carrots & Celery, which might still be in consumers’ possession.
These products were sold in Whole Foods locations across Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, and Nevada.
The products in question were packaged in plastic clamshells with codes beginning with “GH” followed by three digits between 236 and 284, and they have best if sold by dates ranging from September 1 to October 19.
As of Thursday, there have been no reports of illnesses from this recall.
E. coli Cases Overview
Which Grimmway Farms Products Are Affected?
The recalled organic carrots from Grimmway Farms come from various brands and have been sold nationwide. Even though they are typically no longer available on store shelves, they may still be present in people’s refrigerators.
Below is a list of the recalled organic whole carrots, which were sold between August 14 and October 23, without best-if-used-by dates:
Additionally, here’s the list of recalled cut and peeled organic baby carrots, along with their bag sizes and best-if-used-by dates:
Understanding E. coli: Symptoms and Risks
E. coli (Escherichia coli) refers to a group of bacteria, most of which exist harmlessly in the intestines of humans and animals. However, some strains can lead to mild to severe gastrointestinal issues if ingested, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The strains of E. coli that can cause diarrhea are typically transmitted through contaminated food or water. This may occur when food handlers fail to wash their hands properly after using the restroom. Additionally, livestock like cattle can also transfer E. coli to food or crops.
Symptoms of an E. coli infection can include severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea (which may be bloody), and vomiting, according to the CDC.
The CDC advises seeking medical help immediately if you experience:
- Diarrhea with a fever over 102°F
- Diarrhea lasting longer than three days that doesn’t show improvement
- Bloody diarrhea
- Excessive vomiting that prevents you from retaining liquids
- Signs of dehydration, such as:
- Reduced urination
- Dry throat and mouth
- Dizziness when standing up