Salmonella outbreak linked to contaminated basil sold at Trader Joe’s in NC, other states
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Organic basil linked to a salmonella outbreak was sold at Trader Joe’s stores in over two dozen states, including North Carolina, between Feb. 1 and April 6.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Infinite Herbs brand organic basil, sold in 2.5-ounce clamshell-style containers at Trader Joe’s, has so far caused one person to be hospitalized and 12 people to be sick with salmonella in seven states.
The illnesses were reported in Minnesota, Florida, Wisconsin, Missouri, Georgia, New Jersey and Rhode Island, but the product was sold in a total of 29 states — including North Carolina — and Washington, D.C.
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The Food and Drug Administration is actively investigating the outbreak, and the CDC said Infinite Herbs is cooperating and has agreed to issue a voluntary recall. Trader Joe’s has also pulled the product from stores, according to the CDC.
Those who have already purchased the basil are encouraged to throw it away or return it to stores. All items and surfaces that may have touched the product should be washed using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
Salmonella symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, fever and stomach cramps. Those with severe symptoms should call a healthcare provider.
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