FDA Investigates Fatal E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Carrots Sold in Supermarkets Across the Country

The FDA and CDC are investigating a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O121:H19 infections tied to carrots distributed by Grimmway Farms, based in Bakersfield, California. The outbreak has resulted in 39 illnesses, 15 hospitalizations, and one death across the United States.

Recall Details

Grimmway Farms issued a recall on November 16 for certain organic whole carrots and organic baby carrots due to potential E. coli contamination. These products were distributed nationwide, including Puerto Rico and Canada, to major retailers such as Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, Sprouts, Whole Foods, Walmart, Target, Publix, and Kroger.

Recalled Products:

1. Organic Whole Carrots (Available Aug. 14 – Oct. 23):
   • 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
2. Organic Baby Carrots (Best-if-used-by dates: Sept. 11 – Nov. 12):
   • Brands: 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Compliments, Full Circle, Good & Gather, GreenWise, Grimmway Farms, Kroger, LIDL, Marketside, Nature’s Promise, O Organic, President’s Choice, Raley’s, Simple Truth, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, Wholesome Pantry

Consumer Guidance

• Check Refrigerators/Freezers: Consumers should inspect for recalled products and dispose of them immediately.
• Seek Medical Attention: If symptoms like severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, fever, nausea, or vomiting develop, contact a healthcare provider.
• Retailers & Distributors: Ensure proper disposal of recalled items and inspect inventories for affected products.

E. Coli O121:H19: Key Facts

• Symptoms: Severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), fever, nausea, and/or vomiting.
• Incubation Period: 24 hours to 10 days post-exposure.
• Complications: Severe cases can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, or neurological issues.

Grimmway Farms Statement

Jeff Huckaby, President and CEO of Grimmway Farms, expressed deep concern over the outbreak:

“The health of our customers and the integrity of our products are our highest priorities. We are conducting a thorough review of our growing, harvest, and processing practices.”

Additional Updates

• On November 14, the EPA appointed Russell Hamlin, PhD, Grimmway’s president of farming operations, to its Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee to address environmental issues in agriculture.

For more information, visit FDA Recalls & Outbreaks or contact Grimmway Farms’ consumer support line.