WASHINGTON, D.C. — A multistate outbreak of E. coli O121 infections has been linked to organic bagged carrots sold under multiple brand names, including popular retailers like Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, and Simple Truth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health officials are investigating the outbreak, which has affected 39 people across 18 states, including 15 hospitalizations and one death.
While these carrots are no longer on store shelves, local residents in Chillicothe and surrounding areas are encouraged to check their homes for any recalled products. The carrots, sold by Grimmway Farms, include both baby and whole bagged organic varieties.
Details of the Recall
On November 16, 2024, Grimmway Farms initiated a voluntary recall of several brands and sizes of organic carrots. The affected products include:
Recalled Baby Organic Carrots
- Best-if-used-by dates: September 11, 2024, to November 12, 2024
- Brands: 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Compliments, Full Circle, Good & Gather, GreenWise, Grimmway Farms, Marketside, Nature’s Promise, O-Organic, President’s Choice, Raley’s, Simple Truth, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, Wholesome Pantry
Recalled Whole Organic Carrots
- Purchase period: August 14, 2024, to October 23, 2024
- Brands: 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Compliments, Full Circle, Good & Gather, GreenWise, Marketside, Nature’s Promise, O-Organic, President’s Choice, Simple Truth, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, Wholesome Pantry
- Note: No best-if-used-by dates were printed on these bags.
Residents can find detailed information about the recall on the CDC website.
What You Should Do
If you purchased any of the recalled carrots:
- Do not consume them. Check your refrigerator and freezer for any bagged carrots that match the recall details and dispose of them immediately.
- Clean thoroughly. Wash any surfaces, containers, or utensils that may have come into contact with the recalled carrots using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.
If you experience symptoms of E. coli, such as severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, or signs of dehydration, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What Businesses Should Know
Local businesses are advised to:
- Stop selling or serving the recalled carrots.
- Sanitize work areas. Wash and sanitize any surfaces or equipment that may have come into contact with these products.
Symptoms and Risks of E. coli
Most people infected with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli experience:
- Severe stomach cramps
- Diarrhea, often bloody
- Vomiting
Symptoms typically begin 3 to 4 days after exposure and last about a week. While most recover without treatment, some may develop serious complications like kidney problems (hemolytic uremic syndrome or HUS), requiring hospitalization.
A Growing Concern
This outbreak highlights the importance of food safety and proper monitoring. Grimmway Farms, the producer of the recalled carrots, has cooperated with public health officials to remove affected products from distribution and raise awareness.
While no stores in Chillicothe currently carry the recalled carrots, they may still be in residents’ homes. Local health officials urge everyone to remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves.
For more information, visit the CDC’s E. coli information page or the Grimmway Farms recall notice.