Coconut count increases to 13 illnesses in 8 states
A salmonella outbreak linked to at least two brands of dried coconut has been identified as the source of thirteen illnesses across eight states, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced. Recalls by two separate companies have now been connected to serious symptoms of salmonella contamination among consumers.
Of the thirteen people who have become ill in the most recent incidents of food poisoning, three have been hospitalized. Those who fell ill after consuming the contaminated coconut products are from California, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Missouri, Oregon, Texas, and Utah.
The CDC has indicated that this outbreak of salmonella contamination may also be related to similar cases involving dried coconut in September 2017. The two companies involved in the current recall and illnesses are International Harvest and Natural Grocers.
Consumers who have purchased International Harvest, Inc. brand Go Smile! Raw Coconut, Go Smiles Dried Coconut Raw or recalled Natural Grocers Coconut Smiles Organic should not eat them, warns the CDC. Seven people who became ill had eaten dried coconut they purchased at the Natural Grocers stores.
The CDC also advises that even if some of the recalled dried coconut was eaten or served and no one got sick, consumers should throw it away or return it to the place of purchase. Put it in a sealed bag in the trash so that children, pets, and other animals can’t eat it. Then, wash and sanitize drawers or shelves in refrigerators and freezers where the recalled coconut was stored.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is continuing its investigation and is working with both companies to try to determine the cause of the salmonella outbreak.
If you have purchased or consumed any of the coconut products that have been identified as the source of illness from salmonella contamination, contact the food poisoning lawyers at 1-888-335-4901 to learn more about your options.
