As the largest carrot producer globally, Grimmway Farms supplies over 65 organic brands, which include Cal-Organic Farms and Bunny-Luv. The affected carrots were sold in stores from mid-August to late October, making it crucial to check any carrot packaging in your refrigerator.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the recall includes multiple sizes and brands of organic carrots. If you have recently purchased baby carrots with best-by dates from 9/11/2024 to 11/12/2024, please inspect your packaging. The following brands have been identified as affected:
- 365
- Bunny Luv
- Cal-Organic
- Compliments
- Full Circle
- Good & Gather
- GreenWise
- Grimmway Farms
- Marketside
- Nature’s Promise
- O-Organic
- President’s Choice
- Raley’s
- Simple Truth
- Sprouts
- Trader Joe’s
- Wegmans
- Wholesome Pantry
If your bag of carrots lacks a best-by date, the CDC suggests refraining from consuming the following brands while the recall is active:
- 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
To date, the FDA has identified illness cases connected to this outbreak in states including Arkansas, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming.
What is E. coli?
Escherichia coli (or E. coli) is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in various environments, including the intestines. As per the CDC, while the majority of E. coli strains are harmless, some can lead to illness or severe complications. This raises the question, “How does one contract the harmful strain?”
Infection with E. coli most often occurs through the consumption of contaminated food or water, or through contact with infected animals, environments, or individuals. Symptoms of an E. coli infection can resemble those of other gastrointestinal issues, which may include diarrhea, cramps, abdominal pain, and nausea or vomiting. If you observe bloody diarrhea, it’s crucial to contact your doctor for medical advice.
According to Darin Detwiler, an expert in food safety and professor at Northeastern University, “The most vulnerable populations—the very young (under 5 years), the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant individuals—are the most likely to require hospitalization as a result.”
For individuals in these at-risk groups, prompt treatment is essential to reduce the chances of life-threatening complications.
How do carrots become contaminated with E. coli?
Darin Detwiler explains that there are several pathways through which carrots can become contaminated with E. coli. “This can occur due to contaminated irrigation water or cross-contamination,” he states. “This could involve farm workers not washing their hands properly, or the carrots being harvested and stored in unsanitary conditions.”
He also points out that baby carrots have a heightened risk of contamination. “They are not merely smaller carrots—they are larger carrots with the unattractive parts removed,” he clarifies. “The processing involved can create opportunities for contamination, unlike whole carrots that are simply pulled from the ground.”
Furthermore, since most carrots, particularly baby carrots, are consumed raw, this elevates the likelihood of bacteria spreading. “When they are not cooked, there is no effective method to eliminate pathogens like E. coli,” Detwiler notes.
What to do if you have these carrots in your kitchen
If you possess any recalled carrots in your refrigerator, the CDC advises against eating them and recommends disposing of them immediately. Additionally, it is essential to wash any surfaces or utensils that may have been in contact with the carrots using hot, soapy water or in a dishwasher. If you’ve consumed the recalled carrots and are experiencing stomach issues or symptoms associated with an E. coli infection, it is advisable to consult with your doctor promptly.
Image Source: Nazarenko LLC / Shutterstock
