Whole and baby carrots sold in some of the country's largest supermarkets have been recalled due to a deadly E. coli outbreak that has killed one person and sickened nearly 40 others.
Grimmway Farms recalled organic whole carrots and organic peeled carrots on Saturday because the vegetables may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
While the infected carrots are no longer available in grocery stores, the production company warned that people may still be keeping them in their kitchens.
Grimmway Farms issued the recall after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said its organic carrots may be linked to the recent outbreak.
“Some infections can cause severe cases of bloody diarrhea, such as hemolytic uremic syndrome, or the development of high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, and neurological problems. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and/or vomiting,” the FDA warned. .
As of Saturday, there were 39 illnesses and one death linked to the outbreak, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
Stores that sell the company's products throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico include Walmart, Target, Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe's, Kroger, Albertsons, Publix and Food Lion.
Canadian chains Loblaws and Compliments were also affected, according to the FDA list.
Grimmway Farms warned that customers who purchased whole organic carrots from August 14 through October 23 should not consume them. Organic baby carrots with a best-by date should also be thrown out if they were used between Sept. 11 and Nov. 12, the company said.
Grimmway Farms said any recalled carrots should be thrown away or returned to the store for a refund.
“If you have these products in your home, do not eat or use them, throw them away, and clean and disinfect surfaces you touched. Consumers concerned about illness should contact a medical professional,” the company said.
Grimway added that people concerned about the disease should contact medical professionals.
