Trader Joe's has taken swift action in response to a concerning salmonella outbreak, announcing a recall of Infinite Herbs organic basil and urging customers to prioritize safety in light of potential health risks.
The recall centers on specific batches of Infinite Herbs organic basil, packaged in 2.5-ounce containers and distributed across 29 states and Washington, D.C., between February 1 and April 6.
This recall decision follows reports of twelve confirmed cases of salmonella infections across seven states, with one individual requiring hospitalization.
The affected states encompass Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin, raising significant concerns among health authorities and consumers alike.
Trader Joe's Recall of Infinite Herbs Organic Basil
The Food and Drug Administration reported that seven out of eight cases, where information was available, were linked to the consumption of fresh organic basil bought from Trader Joe's before falling ill.
The agency's traceback data revealed that Infinite Herbs, LLC, based in Florida, had provided the basil to Trader Joe's.
Grego Berliavsky, head of Infinite Herbs, expressed the company's decision to voluntarily recall the product, stating, "I am heartbroken at the thought that any item we sold may have caused illness or discomfort."
Berliavsky emphasized the company's commitment to ensuring product safety, stating, "We simply will not rest until we can once again be confident in the safety of this product."
Berliavsky advised customers to inspect their freezers for the recalled basil, noting that fresh basil typically deteriorates and becomes unsuitable for consumption within five to seven days.
He urged caution regarding any frozen food containing Infinite Herbs organic basil purchased between February 1 and April 6, advising against consumption.
The basil in question was obtained from a single farm, which is no longer operational, according to Berliavsky. He mentioned ongoing collaboration with the farm to conduct an internal investigation into food safety practices.
The primary objective of this investigation is to identify the root cause of the recall and implement preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Salmonella Outbreak From Organic Basil
Trader Joe's has taken the proactive step of withdrawing all 2.5-oz clamshell-packaged organic basil under the Infinite Herbs brand from their shelves. Consequently, this particular product should no longer be procured by customers at their outlets.
The onset of salmonella infection typically manifests within 12 to 72 hours post consumption of contaminated food, lasting approximately four to seven days.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight that severe salmonella infections are more probable in children under 5, adults aged 65 and above, and those with weakened immune systems.
However, individuals exhibiting severe diarrhea, bloody stools, a fever exceeding 102 degrees, or prolonged vomiting may necessitate antibiotics or hospitalization.
Customers who have purchased organic basil from Trader Joe's stores in the specified states are advised to inspect their refrigerators and freezers, refraining from consuming 2.5-oz packages of Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil.
This product has been removed from Trader Joe's inventory and likely exceeds its shelf life.
If individuals have already bought organic basil from Trader Joe's but are uncertain about its brand due to removal from packaging or freezing, it should not be consumed and should be discarded.
Consumers are encouraged to adhere to safe handling and cleaning practices, exercising additional caution when sanitizing surfaces and containers that may have encountered this product to minimize cross-contamination risks.
Should symptoms suggestive of a Salmonella infection emerge subsequent to consuming the 2.5-oz Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil from Trader Joe's stores, contacting a healthcare professional is advised.
