Gibson Farms Voluntarily Recalls Organic Light Halves and Pieces Shelled with Walnuts
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have been investigating a multistate outbreak of E coli O157 infections. With epidemiologic and traceback evidence, the outbreak was linked to Gibson Farms, Inc.’s organic walnuts.
According to reports, a total of 13 people have been sickened with this strain of E coli, and were reported from two states: Washington (6) and California (7). The lot numbers involved in the recall were 3325-043 and 3341-501, with expiration dates of 5/21/2025 and 6/7/2025. Furthermore, Gibson Farms voluntarily recalled this product after being notified by the CDC of 12 potential illnesses, two of which ended up developing hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition known to cause kidney failure. No deaths were reported.
Gibson Farms requests that anyone still holding these products discard them immediately, and notify any clients that they have been sold to. Furthermore, it is likely that there have been more illnesses than what has been reported, as many who become ill are able to recover on their own.
In most cases, E.coli is not very serious, with diarrhea and vomiting being the biggest concern. Although in some cases, a very deadly condition can develop, hemolytic uremic syndrome. As mentioned previously, this condition can cause kidney failure, permanent health problems, and in serious cases, death. Those who are most susceptible to this issue are those who are immunosuppressed, children, the elderly, and those who travel internationally.
Furthermore, although complications such as these are rare, they can still happen. This is why it is incredibly important that those who have consumed these products, and have become ill should consult their local health provider immediately.
According to one national food poisoning attorney, “In most cases, becoming ill with E coli is neither serious or life threatening. Although for some, it can prove to be a huge issue, so it is always important to monitor one’s condition when ill with this bacteria.”
