4Earth Farms has initiated a voluntary recall of several brands of vegetable medleys containing broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and sometimes snow peas, as well as whole organic carrots. This recall impacts products distributed to retail stores across seven states: New Hampshire, Florida, California, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Illinois, and Colorado. The recall follows a warning from Grimmway Farms, indicating potential E. coli contamination in the carrots included in these packages.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an advisory urging consumers not to consume or use the recalled produce. Instead, they should dispose of it immediately. Furthermore, the FDA advises cleaning and sanitizing all surfaces and items that may have come into contact with the recalled products to prevent cross-contamination.
While no illnesses have yet been linked to the recalled 4Earth Farms products, certain groups remain at elevated risk for severe E. coli infections. These include young children under five years old, seniors aged 65 or older, individuals with compromised immune systems, and international travelers. Symptoms of E. coli infection typically appear three to four days post-consumption of contaminated produce and generally resolve within a week.
The recalled products, which boast best-by dates spanning from September 7 to November 2, are likely no longer available on store shelves but may still reside in consumers' refrigerators or freezers. Among the specific items recalled are Marketside Organic Vegetable Medley 12oz UPC 681131179461 and Marketside Vegetable Medley 32oz UPC 681131457378.
Consumers are urged to inspect their fridges and freezers for any remaining recalled products and dispose of them if found. Additionally, the FDA advises consumers to remain vigilant for symptoms of E. coli infection, such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (which can be bloody or watery), vomiting, and a low-grade fever.
The initial E. coli infections were reported across 18 states, prompting this precautionary recall by 4Earth Farms. Although no direct illnesses from these specific products have been reported, the company, in cooperation with the FDA, is working to ensure consumer safety.
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