The Food and Drug Administration is collaborating with the New York State Department of Health, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to investigate an outbreak of 16 foodborne illness infections believed to be tied to a blend of organic spinach and spring mix sold at the Wegmans chain of supermarket.
Wegmans recalled 5-ounce and 11-ounce packages of Wegmans brand Organic Spinach & Spring Mix sold in its stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland and Massachusetts between October 14 and November 1. The recall was issued after New York State officials established a link between the product and reported illnesses in New York State due to E.coli O157:H7. State Garden, Inc. of Chelsea, Massachusetts provides the product to Wegmans.
The FDA is working with state officials, Wegmans, and State Garden, Inc. to determine further distribution of the product and ensure that it is removed from potential sale.
A statement by Wegmans counsels consumers to discard any remaining product at home and visit their service desk for a full refund. Wegmans Consumer Affairs can be contacted at 1-800-WEGMANS (934-6267), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fast facts on E. coli
According to the FSIS, E. coli is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and in the most severe cases, kidney failure. The very young, seniors and persons with weak immune systems are the most susceptible to foodborne illness.
Consumer resources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Food and Drug Administration’s Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts
FDA Food Safety
FoodSafety.gov
United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety Education
IsItDoneYet.gov