On November 20, 2024, F&S Fresh Foods, headquartered in Sacramento, California, issued a recall of Whole Foods Market’s Organic Carrot Sticks and Organic Carrots & Celery due to the potential contamination with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) O121:H19. The recall was initiated after Grimmway Farms, the supplier of the organic carrots in these products, alerted F&S Fresh Foods to the contamination risk. This issue has also been linked to other recalls, including the Kickin’ Carrot Falafel Bites, which were traced back to Grimmway Farms.
The recalled products, packaged in 15 oz. plastic clamshell containers, were sold at Whole Foods Market stores in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, and Nevada. They are identified by coding information that includes the letters “GH” followed by three digits ranging from 236 to 284 and best-if-sold-by dates from September 1, 2024, to October 19, 2024. Although these items should no longer be available in stores, they may still be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers.
Although no illnesses have been reported to date, the recall is being carried out under the supervision of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prioritize consumer safety.
E. coli can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), fever, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, the infection may lead to complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome, high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, or neurologic problems. The incubation period ranges from 24 hours to 10 days, with an average of 3 to 4 days.
Consumers who purchased the affected products are urged not to consume them. Instead, they should discard the items and clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled carrots to prevent cross-contamination. If there are concerns about potential illness, individuals should consult a medical professional promptly.
If you were affected by this recall, you may be eligible for a compensation. Reach out to Keep Food Safe to discuss your legal options.
