The outbreak has resulted in one death, with 15 people hospitalized and 39 cases reported across 18 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The recalled carrots, distributed by Grimmway Farms, were sold at major retailers including Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Target, Walmart, and Wegmans. While the products are likely no longer on store shelves, officials warn they may still be in consumers’ homes. Affected products should be discarded or returned to the store for a refund.
The recall involves organic whole carrots sold from August 14 to October 23, which lack a printed best-if-used-by date, and organic baby carrots with best-if-used-by dates from September 11 to November 12. The CDC advises consumers to sanitize surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled carrots.
Symptoms of O121 E. coli include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, typically appearing three to four days after exposure. While most recover without medical treatment, some may develop severe kidney complications requiring hospitalization.
This outbreak follows another E. coli incident in the U.S. tied to slivered onions on McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers, which caused 104 illnesses, 34 hospitalizations, and one death. The FDA confirmed the fatality in October.
Health officials urge vigilance in identifying and disposing of contaminated products to prevent further cases.
