Salmonella outbreak linked to item sold at Trader Joe’s

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Trader Joe’s shoppers in Ohio are being notified to check their refrigerators and freezers for produce they might have purchased at the grocery chain.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are investigating a multi-state salmonella outbreak linked to herbs sold in many stores.

Tornadoes confirmed in Delaware, Crawford counties by National Weather Service

According to health officials, the outbreak, including a dozen illnesses that have been linked, possibly began with Infinite Herbs organic basil sold in 2.5-ounce clamshell packaging.

Trader Joe’s has removed the basil from store shelves but had previously sold the item at locations in 29 states including Ohio. Infinite Herbs located in Miami, has also recalled the product.

Currently, Infinite Herbs organic basil is the only product connected with the illnesses, but other herbs are being investigated for contamination.

Gentle Ohio dog needs a friend on the road to recovery

Out of the 12 reported cases, one person was hospitalized. However, the total number of cases is considered to be much larger as the CDC noted many instances go unreported. Anyone suffering the symptoms of a salmonella infection is urged to contact their healthcare provider.

Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps, the CDC notes. People can start to feel ill anywhere from six hours to six days after ingesting the bacteria. The illness can last four to seven days.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.