Trader Joe’s and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued a warning to consumers not to eat Infinite Herbs brand organic basil sold at Trader Joe’s stores due to a salmonella outbreak. The affected product, packaged in 2.5-ounce clamshell containers, was sold in 29 states and the District of Columbia.
The organic basil from Infinite Herbs is likely past its shelf life and should no longer be available on store shelves. However, consumers who purchased the product are advised to check their refrigerators and freezers and refrain from eating or using the basil, even if it has been removed from its original packaging or frozen.
Trader Joe’s has already removed all Infinite Herbs organic basil packages from store shelves as part of the product recall. Infinite Herbs is cooperating with the FDA’s investigation and has agreed to initiate a voluntary recall.
Multistate #outbreak of Salmonella linked to Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil previously sold at Trader Joe’s stores in 29 states and DC. Product has been removed from store shelves. Learn more at: https://t.co/S5FulfCLSR pic.twitter.com/2ci49JvD8W
— FDA FOOD (Ctr for Food Safety & Applied Nutrition) (@FDAfood) April 17, 2024
Salmonella illness typically occurs within 12 to 72 hours of consuming contaminated food and can last for four to seven days. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Children under the age of 5, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of severe infections. The FDA urges people experiencing salmonella symptoms to contact a health care provider for reporting and treatment.
The recalled organic basil was sold in numerous states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
The FDA reported a total of 12 illnesses and one hospitalization linked to the salmonella outbreak, with the most recent illness onset on April 2. Cases were reported in Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin.
In a statement to FOX Business, Trader Joe’s emphasized the importance of customer and crew member health and safety, stating that they do not take any chances when it comes to product safety and quality. The company also highlighted its commitment to clear communication and providing customers with details about recalls promptly.
