Whole Foods Recalls Products Containing Jalapenos Due to Salmonella Risk
The recall impacts select produce and prepared foods containing jalapenos sourced from Coast Citrus Distributors amid a wider multistate salmonella outbreak.
Whole Foods Market is recalling select items from its produce and prepared foods departments due to potential salmonella contamination, the company announced Wednesday.
The affected products contain jalapenos sourced from Coast Citrus Distributors. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with these specific Whole Foods products.
This recall is a precautionary measure following a weekend recall by Taylor Farms, which supplies ingredients to Whole Foods and other retailers. Taylor Farms recalled prepared foods containing jalapenos, such as salsas and guacamole, sold at various retailers including Walmart and Whole Foods in multiple states.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating a multistate salmonella outbreak that has sickened 345 people across 27 states and resulted in 36 hospitalizations. A grower in Sinaloa, Mexico, supplying Coast Citrus Distributors, has been identified as a potential source of the contamination.
Recalled Whole Foods items include specific salsas, guacamole, and pico de gallo. The company has removed all recalled products from its shelves and advises customers to discard any purchased items and contact Whole Foods for a refund.
Salmonella infection symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. While generally mild, the infection can be severe for young children, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
In light of ongoing foodborne outbreaks, the FDA has recommended that producers and suppliers of fresh produce implement enhanced sanitation controls, supplier verification, and proper refrigeration practices.