A Class I recall has been issued by the FDA for carrots from Grimmway Farms due to contamination with Shiga toxin-producing E.coli O121:H19. This bacterium can cause serious infections and even death in vulnerable populations. The affected carrots were distributed across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada under various brand names and in different bag sizes. The recall includes whole carrots and baby carrots cut and peeled, with specific best-if-used-by dates ranging from September to November.
The CDC has linked carrots from Grimmway Farms to an E. Coli outbreak that has resulted in one death and 48 illnesses since September. Twenty hospitalizations have occurred, with the highest number of cases reported in Washington. However, the actual number of infections may be higher as many people do not seek medical care or testing for bacterial infections. The FDA has notified all retailers that received the contaminated products originally in November, but some items may still be in consumers’ homes.
Grimmway Farms CEO Jeff Huckaby emphasized the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of their products. They are conducting a thorough review of their growing, harvest, and processing practices in response to the recall. Consumers who have the recalled products in their possession are advised to discard them immediately and clean any surfaces they may have touched. The company has set up a hotline for consumers with questions or concerns about the recalled products.
The recall of Grimmway Farms carrots is classified as Class I by the FDA, indicating a high risk of serious adverse health consequences or death from consuming the contaminated products. The affected carrots were distributed under various brand names and in multiple bag sizes, with specific best-if-used-by dates between August and October. The CDC has identified these carrots as the source of an E. Coli outbreak that has caused illness and hospitalizations across multiple states.
In response to the recall, Grimmway Farms is working with health authorities and suppliers to ensure the safety and integrity of their products. Consumers are urged to check their homes for any recalled products and dispose of them promptly. Additionally, surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated carrots should be cleaned and sanitized. If consumers have any questions or need further information, they can contact Grimmway Farms directly through a dedicated hotline.
The FDA’s Class I recall of carrots from Grimmway Farms underscores the potential risks of foodborne illnesses and the importance of thorough food safety practices. The outbreak of E. Coli linked to these carrots has had serious consequences, including hospitalizations and a fatality. Consumers are advised to stay informed about product recalls and take appropriate measures to protect their health and safety. Newsweek has reached out to Grimmway Farms for comment on the recall and its implications.
