FDA has identified Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil, sold at Trader Joe’s stores across 29 states and D.C., as the potential source of a multistate Salmonella outbreak. The ongoing investigation has so far linked the product to 12 reported cases of illness and one person has been hospitalized.
Sold at Trader Joe’s stores in AL, CT, D.C., DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, and WI.
Seven of the eight cases with available information reported exposure to fresh organic basil purchased from Trader Joe's before falling ill. Further traceback data collected by the FDA pinpointed Infinite Herbs, LLC, in Miami, FL, as the supplier of the organic basil sold at Trader Joe’s stores. Infinite Herbs, LLC is cooperating with the FDA investigation and has agreed to initiate a voluntary recall.
The product, Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil, is packaged in 2.5-oz clamshell containers and has been removed from Trader Joe's store shelves and this product should no longer be available for sale. Symptoms of Salmonella infection typically manifest within 12 to 72 hours of consuming contaminated food and can last up to a week.
Consumers who purchased organic basil from Trader Joe’s stores in the states listed above should check their refrigerators and freezers and should not eat 2.5-oz packages of Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil. The investigation is ongoing to determine the source of contamination and whether additional products are linked to illnesses.
In case you are experiencing Salmonella symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, it is important to report it. It can help to detect & resolve outbreaks early and prevent others from being harmed, and it enables better surveillance. If symptoms persist, seek medical care.
Source:
www.fda.gov
