Fabalish, Inc, based in Carlstadt, New Jersey, has issued a voluntary recall of its Kickin’ Carrot Falafel Bites due to potential contamination with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, a bacterium that can cause severe illness in certain populations.
Background
This recall is connected to the larger, nationwide recall of organic whole and organic baby carrots by Grimmway Farms due to potential E. coli contamination. Grimmway Farms is a food supplier to Fabalish, Inc.
Distribution
The affected product was distributed in California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Washington. The recalled product was also sold online at www.fabalish.com.
Product Details
- Brand – Fabalish
- Product – Kickin’ Carrot Falafel Bites
- Size – 10 oz
- Packaging – Orange box
- Lot Code – 260925
Consumer Action
Consumers are advised to check their homes for the recalled item.
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected product even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled products – consumer, distributor, or retailer – is requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface or utensils that have come into contact with the impacted products.
Consumers with the recalled product are asked to dispose of it properly and send a photo to [email protected] for a refund.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact the company at 201-942-2900 from Monday to Friday, 10 am to 3 pm EST.
Health Risks
No illnesses or injuries in connection with the consumption of the recalled product have been reported.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), E. coli are bacteria and are found inhabiting diverse environments such as soil, water sources, and the digestive systems of humans and animals. They’re also frequently found in various food items.
The majority of E. coli strains are not harmful and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut ecosystem by assisting in breaking down the food, contributing to the production of essential vitamins, and acting as a defense mechanism against more dangerous microorganisms.
However, not all E. coli are benign. Certain strains can cause a range of health issues in humans, including gastrointestinal distress resulting in diarrhea, infections of the urinary tract, respiratory ailments like pneumonia, and even severe systemic infections such as sepsis. Symptoms generally appear two to five days after exposure but can emerge anywhere from one to eight days later. Most people recover within 5-10 days.
Of particular concern, however, is the potential for some patients to develop Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a severe complication that can lead to kidney failure, neurological damage, and in extreme cases, death. This risk makes early medical intervention crucial for infected individuals.
Commenting on this article, one national E. coli lawyer said, “Although the risk of contracting HUS is small, the risk is there nonetheless. Any consumer with the recalled product needs to discontinue use and throw it out right away.”
