Grimmway Farms recalled select bags of "organic whole carrots" and "organic baby carrots" on November 16th due to "Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) O121:H19. E. coli O121:H19" contamination.
According to the United States Food & Drug Administration, E. coli is a "bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, elderly people, and those with a weakened immune system." Symptoms include but are not limited to "stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and/or vomiting." More severe symptoms include chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, and neurological problems.
15 people were taken to the hospital after consuming one of the recalled products, and one person had died as of Wednesday (November 20). In addition to a rising number of hospital visits, 39 people have reported illnesses as a result of consuming the affected carrots, per TODAY.
The contaminated products were distributed to stores nationwide including retailers in Massachusetts. Affected whole carrot products were sold in stores from August 14th to October 23rd, while affected baby carrot products were sold from September 11th to November 12th.
Though these products are no longer being sold at stores, there is a good chance they still exist in customers' refrigerators and freezers.
Popular brands listed in the official recall include 365, Cal-Organic, GreenWise, Simple Truth, and Good & Gather to name only a few.
Consumers who purchased any of these products and still have them in their possession are encouraged to throw them out and avoid consumption. Individuals with questions can contact Grimmway Farms at "1-800-301-3101, M-F, 8 am – 8 pm ET, and November 16-17, 8 am – 8 pm ET."
For more information and to view a full list of recalled products visit fda.gov.