FDA Investigates Multistate Outbreak of E. coli Linked to Organic Carrots

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating a multistate outbreak of *E. coli* O121:H19 infections linked to organic whole and baby carrots sold by Grimmway Farms. According to the CDC, the outbreak has resulted in at least 39 illnesses, 15 hospitalizations, and one death across 18 states. Consumers are advised not to eat, sell, or serve the recalled products, which were distributed nationwide in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Canada.

Scope of the Grimmway Farms Recall

The recall, initiated by Bakersfield, California-based Grimmway Farms, covers organic whole carrots and organic baby carrots sold under various brand names. The products were available for purchase at retail stores between mid-August and late October 2024.

Brands affected by the recall include:

• 365: Whole and baby carrots
• Bunny Luv: Organic whole and baby carrots
• Cal-Organic: Organic whole and baby carrots
• Compliments: Organic whole and baby carrots
• Full Circle: Organic baby carrots
• Good & Gather: Organic baby carrots
• GreenWise: Organic baby carrots
• Marketside: Organic baby carrots
• Nature’s Promise: Organic baby carrots
• O Organics: Organic whole and baby carrots
• President’s Choice: Organic whole and baby carrots
• Simple Truth: Organic whole and baby carrots
• Trader Joe’s: Organic baby carrots
• Wegmans: Organic baby carrots
• Wholesome Pantry: Organic baby carrots

The FDA emphasizes that even if the carrots were purchased weeks ago, they should be discarded immediately if they are still in consumers’ refrigerators, as *E. coli* can survive on refrigerated surfaces.

Symptoms and Public Health Guidance

*E. coli* O121:H19 is a Shiga toxin-producing bacterium that can cause severe illness. According to the CDC, symptoms typically appear three to four days after consuming contaminated food. Common symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting.

While most people recover within five to seven days, some individuals may develop a type of kidney failure known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The CDC urges anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever higher than 102°F, diarrhea lasting more than three days, or signs of dehydration—such as dizziness or infrequent urination—to contact a healthcare provider immediately.

Steps for Consumers and Retailers

To prevent further infections, the FDA recommends the following actions:

• Check your refrigerator: Review the list of recalled brands and expiration dates provided on the FDA recall notice.
• Sanitize surfaces: Wash and sanitize any drawers or shelves in the refrigerator where the recalled carrots were stored, as bacteria can easily transfer to other foods.
• Monitor for illness: If you consumed the recalled carrots and feel ill, report your symptoms to your local health department.

Retailers have been instructed to remove the affected products from store shelves. Grimmway Farms stated it is working closely with the FDA to ensure all impacted inventory is pulled from the supply chain. The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine if other products or distribution channels are involved.