In an updated public health alert, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported an expanded recall effort due to an outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to consumption of organic basil from Infinite Herbs.
Fast Facts
Organic basil from Infinite Herbs and now Melissa’s brands are part of the affected product recall.
So far, twelve people have been sickened but only one person has been hospitalized. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported.
The outbreak spans across seven states and three different retailers. See below for specific states where the affected products were sold and associated retail locations.
Recalled Basil Products
Infinite Herbs Brand Organic Basil is packaged in 2.5 oz (UPC 8 18042 02147 7) clamshell-style clear plastic containers and was sold at Trader Joe’s grocery stores across 29 states in AL, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WI, and in Washington, D.C. The same product and packaging was also sold at various Fruit Center Marketplace stores in Massachusetts. The affected product was sold by both retailers from February 1, 2024 to April 6, 2024.
Melissa’s Brand Fresh Organic Basil is packaged in both 2 oz (UPC code 045255 14142 9) and 4 oz (UPC 0 45255 14439 0) clamshell-style clear plastic containers and was available for sale at Dierberg’s stores in Illinois and Missouri between February 10, 2024 and February 20, 2024.
All recalled products have either been pulled from stores or are past the sell-by date and are no longer available for purchase.
Advice to Consumers
Although no longer available for purchase, consumers may be in possession of the affected products and are advised to check their homes for the recalled basil. If found, the affected products should not be consumed and should be immediately discarded or returned to point of purchase for refund. Any surfaces or other items that may have come into contact with the recalled basil should be sanitized thoroughly.
Advice to Businesses
Any restaurant, caterer, food institution or other business with the affected product is strongly requested to not sell or serve it. The recalled basil should be disposed of or returned to point of purchase for refund. Any surfaces or other items that may have come into contact with the recalled products should be sanitized thoroughly.
About Salmonella:
Consumers should check with their healthcare providers if they have any concerns about potential Salmonella exposure and also monitor for any symptoms of infection.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections. Vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible. A Salmonella infection may present quickly within 6 hours or up to 6 days after exposure and may include the following symptoms:
- Gastroenteritis
- Diarrhea, Vomiting, and/or Nausea
- Typhoid Fever
- Pain, Fever, Abdominal Tenderness, Bloody Stools, and Severe Diarrhea
- Bacteremia
- Infections in other parts of the body other than the initial site of contamination
According to one national food safety attorney, “This expanded recall again highlights the need for consumers to stay informed, follow food safety guidelines, and prioritize their health.”
Stay up to date on food recalls by visiting sites like www.fda.gov or Food Poisoning News.
