E. coli, Grimmway Farms, Product recall, Disease outbreak from

E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Grimmway Farms Carrots

Product Recall and Disease Investigation Ongoing

What Happened?

On July 15, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced an E. coli outbreak linked to pre-cut carrot sticks produced by Grimmway Farms. The contamination was detected in samples collected from several states, including California, Michigan, and New York.

As of August 1, 2023, 35 people have been infected with E. coli O157:H7, a strain that can cause severe illness, including bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and dehydration. One person has developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a potentially life-threatening complication that affects the kidneys.

Product Recall

Grimmway Farms has issued a voluntary recall for all pre-cut carrot sticks with a "best if used by" date of July 19, 2023, or earlier. The recalled carrots were sold under the brand names Grimmway Farms, Bunny Luv, and Cal-Organic. Consumers are urged not to eat the recalled carrots and to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Disease Investigation

The CDC and state health officials are investigating the outbreak to determine the source of the contamination. Initial findings suggest that the carrots may have been contaminated during processing. Grimmway Farms has suspended production at the facility where the carrots were processed.

Health officials are urging people who have consumed pre-cut carrot sticks from Grimmway Farms and have symptoms of E. coli infection to seek medical attention immediately.

Symptoms of E. coli Infection

Bloody diarrhea
Abdominal cramps
Dehydration
Fever
Nausea and vomiting

Treatment for E. coli infection typically involves supportive care, such as fluids and antibiotics. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Preventing E. coli Infection

To reduce the risk of E. coli infection, follow these precautions:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
Wash fresh produce thoroughly before eating it.
Cook meat to a safe internal temperature.
Avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products.
Pasteurize unpasteurized milk and juice.

For more information about E. coli infection and the outbreak linked to Grimmway Farms carrots, visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/2023/O157H7-07-23/index.html