An outbreak of E. coli has affected dozens of individuals who consumed bagged organic carrots, resulting in one fatality. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that a total of 39 people across 18 states were infected, with 15 requiring hospitalization after consuming organic whole and baby carrots from Grimmway Farms, based in Bakersfield, California.
The affected carrots, sold under various brand names including 365, Cal-Organic, Nature's Promise, O-Organics, Trader Joe's, and Wegmans, have been recalled by Grimmway Farms. Consumers are advised not to consume the recalled bagged carrots and to discard any matching products found in their refrigerators or freezers.
While most cases were reported in New York, Minnesota, and Washington, infections have been documented in several other states as well. This incident adds to a series of recent E. coli outbreaks, including cases linked to slivered onions at McDonald's, lettuce in the U.K., and organic walnuts in the U.S.
Although experts emphasize that the food supply is generally safe, efforts to reduce E. coli infections have shown limited progress. The recalled organic baby carrots have best-by dates ranging from Sept. 11 through Nov. 12, as per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Symptoms of E. coli infection typically manifest three to four days post-exposure and may include severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. Individuals experiencing severe symptoms are urged to seek medical attention and inform healthcare providers about their recent consumption history.
E. coli bacteria can lead to severe and potentially fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, according to the FDA.
