FDA Recalls All Bagged Spinach; Hundreds Sick and One Death Reported
E. coli Cases Reported
Tainted
spinach has resulted in over 100 cases of E. coli infection, reports the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This also includes 16
cases of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a type of kidney failure, and
one death. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and CDC continue to
investigate the origin of the food-borne illness.
Symptoms of E. coli Illness
E.
coli causes diarrhea, often with bloody stools. While most healthy
adults can recover within one week, some people may develop HUS,
especially young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to
serious kidney damage and even death.
Consumer Advice
The FDA urges
consumers to stop eating fresh spinach and all food containing fresh
spinach until further notice. In addition, consumers should throw out
any spinach items because washing will not remove the E. coli bacteria.
Individuals who think they may be suffering from the symptoms of E. coli
should seek medical help immediately.
Tracing the Source of the E. coli
Natural
Selection Foods recalled all of its products that have spinach in all
brands packed with “Best if Used by Dates” of August 17 through October
1, 2006. River Ranch is also recalling packages of spring mix containing
spinach obtained from Natural Selection.
States with E. coli Cases
To
date, there are over 20 confirmed states, including Pennsylvania,
reporting cases of E. coli-tainted spinach.