Health and Diet: E. Coli Outbreak Scare Leads Major Groceries to Recall Celery Products

Due to the rising number of E. coli cases in various states across the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded the recall of celery products currently being sold in different groceries and convenient stores.

Currently, the recall is being enforced in 16 states in the country.

According to ABC News, the voluntary recall issued by Taylor Farms Pacific Inc. affects the product Celery and Onion Diced Blend and other items containing celery mix that are sold in various major stores including Costco and Walmart. The recall was initiated shortly after 19 individuals from Montana, Utah, Washington, Virginia, Colorado and California felt ill after eating Costco's Rotisserie Chicken Salad which contains the celery mix.

A laboratory testing carried out by Taylor Farms Pacific Inc. revealed that both the celery mix and chicken salad have traces of an E. coli strain.

"Taylor Farms Pacific Inc. of Tracy, CA, is recalling the products listed below because they may include celery which could potentially contain E. coli 0157: H7," the company said in a press released posted by the FDA.

"The products listed below are being recalled out of an abundance of caution due to a Celery and Onion Diced Blend testing positive for E. coli 0157: H7 in a sample taken by the Montana Department of Health," the company continued. "The Celery and Onion Diced Blend tested by the state of Montana was used in a Costco Rotisserie Chicken Salad that has been linked to a multi-state E. coli 0157: H7 outbreak."

Due to the results of the tests, the FDA issued a widespread recall on various products containing celery mixes that were manufactured on November 20. The recall affects various establishments including 7-Eleven, Starbucks, Safeway, Target, Sam's Club, Raley's and Albertsons branches in 16 states in the U.S.

The full details regarding the recall and the affected products and stores can be found on FDA's website.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some of those who were infected with E. coli 0157: H7 have been hospitalized. Two of them developed a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome. The agency noted that no deaths connected to the outbreak have been reported yet.

To ensure the health and safety of the public, the CDC strongly advices stores, restaurants and other establishments to stop serving or offering food items and products released by Taylor Farms Pacific Inc. Those who already purchased the affected items should immediately throw them away to avoid possible infections.