Tue Nov 19 22:00:00 UTC 2024: **FDA Issues Urgent Warning: Multi-State E. coli Outbreak Linked to Recalled Grimmway Farms Carrots**

**Washington, D.C. – November 20, 2024** – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is urging consumers to immediately discard recalled bagged organic whole and baby carrots supplied by Grimmway Farms of Bakersfield, California. The recall follows a multi-state outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli O121:H19 infections linked to the product.

Grimmway Farms initiated a voluntary recall on November 16, 2024, after an investigation traced the source of illness to their organic carrots. The FDA’s investigation is ongoing to determine the source of contamination.

At least 27 individuals have reported illnesses, with 26 (96%) reporting consumption of carrots in the week before their symptoms. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and vomiting, and can appear anywhere from a few days to nine days after consumption. Severe cases may lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure, high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, and neurological problems.

While the recalled carrots are likely no longer available in stores, they may remain in consumers’ homes. The FDA advises checking refrigerators and freezers for the following products:

* **Organic whole carrots:** Sold from August 14 to October 23, 2024, without a “best-if-used-by” date.
* **Organic baby carrots:** With “best-if-used-by” dates ranging from September 11 to November 12, 2024. A full list of recalled products is available on the FDA website (FDA.gov – note: the site is currently undergoing updates due to a recent agency reorganization).

Consumers experiencing symptoms are urged to contact their healthcare provider. To report a complaint or adverse event, visit the FDA’s Industry and Consumer Assistance webpage. The FDA continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available. Distributors and retailers are also advised to check their stock and contact their customers.

Read More