E. coli Outbreak: 15 Sickened, 1 Dies After Eating Contaminated Carrots

Outbreak Investigation

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating an E. coli outbreak linked to contaminated carrots sold in 18 states. The outbreak has sickened 15 people and resulted in one fatality.

Symptoms of E. coli Infection

Symptoms of E. coli infection usually start three to four days after eating the bacteria and include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, which is often bloody, and vomiting. People with severe symptoms of an E. coli infection should seek medical attention and tell the provider what they ate.

Recalled Carrot Brands

More than a dozen brands are recalling bags of organic carrots that were sold in 18 states for potential E. coli contamination. The affected brands are:

• 365: 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb bag sizes
• Bunny Luv: 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, 10 lb, 25 lb
• Cal-Organic: 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, 6 lb, 10 lb, 25 lb
• Compliments: 2 lb
• Full Circle: 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb
• Good & Gather: 2 lb
• GreenWise: 1 lb, 25 lbs
• Marketside: 2 lb
• Nature’s Promise: 1 lb, 5 lb
• O-Organics: 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, 10 lb
• President’s Choice: 2 lb
• Simple Truth: 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb
• Trader Joe’s: 1 lb
• Wegmans: 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb
• Wholesome Pantry: 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb

Recalled Baby Carrot Brands and Dates

Here are the cut-and-peeled organic baby carrots being recalled, along with their bag sizes and best-if-used-by dates:

• 365: 12 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb; Sept. 11 – Nov. 2
• Bunny Luv: 1 lb, 2 lb, 3 lb, 5 lb; Sept. 11 – Nov. 12
• Cal-Organic: 12 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb, 2 pack/2 lbs; Sept. 11 – Nov. 2
• Compliments: 1 lb; Sept. 14 – Oct. 24
• Full Circle: 1 lb; Sept. 14 – Oct. 24
• Good & Gather: 12 oz, 1 lb; Sept. 14 – Nov. 2
• GreenWise: 1 lb; Sept. 11 – Oct. 26
• Grimmway Farms: 25 lb bag; Sept. 11 – Oct. 3
• Marketside: 12 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb; Sept. 11 – Nov. 2
• Nature’s Promise: 1 lb; Sept. 13 – Oct. 25
• O-Organics: 12 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb; Sept. 11 – Nov. 2
• President’s Choice: 1 lb, 2 lb; Sept. 11 – Nov. 2
• Raley’s: 1 lb; Sept. 14 – Oct. 23
• Simple Truth: 1 lb, 2 lb; Sept. 14 – Nov. 2
• Sprouts: 1 lb, 2 lb; Sept. 13 – Nov. 4
• Trader Joe’s: 1 lb; Sept. 13 – Nov. 4
• Wegmans: 12 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb; Sept. 14 – Nov. 2
• Wholesome Pantry: 1 lb, 2 lb; Sept. 16 – Nov. 7

What to Do

The CDC advises not to eat the recalled carrots. The agency encourages consumers to check their refrigerators and dispose of any affected products. For items and surfaces that may have touched the recalled carrots, wash them using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.

Conclusion

The E. coli outbreak linked to contaminated carrots is a serious health concern. It is essential for consumers to check the recalled brands and dates to ensure their safety. The CDC and other health agencies will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.

FAQs

Q: What are the symptoms of E. coli infection?
A: Symptoms of E. coli infection usually start three to four days after eating the bacteria and include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, which is often bloody, and vomiting.

Q: What should I do if I have eaten recalled carrots?
A: Do not eat the recalled carrots. Check your refrigerators and dispose of any affected products. For items and surfaces that may have touched the recalled carrots, wash them using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.

Q: How can I avoid getting sick from E. coli?
A: Avoid eating recalled carrots and other contaminated foods. Wash your hands frequently, especially after handling raw vegetables. Cook vegetables thoroughly before eating.

Q: What should I do if I have a severe E. coli infection?
A: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe symptoms of an E. coli infection, such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, which is often bloody, and vomiting. Tell your healthcare provider what you ate.