Trader Joe’s, a popular grocery store chain, has removed Infinite Herbs-branded basil from its shelves in 29 states and Washington, D.C., following a salmonella outbreak that has affected 12 individuals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) alerted the public about the health risks associated with the contaminated basil in a statement released on Wednesday.
The basil, which was available in 2.5-ounce clamshell-style plastic containers, should not be consumed according to the CDC. Instead, customers are advised to either dispose of the product or return it to any Trader Joe’s store for a refund.
Adding to the concern, the recall has expanded to include basil under the Melissa’s brand, sold in 2-ounce and 4-ounce packages at Dierberg’s stores in Illinois and Missouri. These items were available for purchase between February 10 and February 20, as detailed in a notice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) dated April 19.
Of the 12 reported cases, seven individuals who became ill had either purchased or were likely to have purchased the basil at Trader Joe’s. The affected people are from seven different states: Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin. One of these cases has led to hospitalization.
Salmonella can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, appearing 12 hours to three days after consuming tainted food.
Grego Berliavsky, CEO of Infinite Herbs, expressed his concern over the situation. In a company statement, he mentioned that the voluntary recall of certain packages of basil (specifically those sold between February 1 and April 6 with UPC 8 18042 02147 7) was a precautionary measure to prevent further illnesses. He stated, “I am heartbroken at the thought that any item we sold may have caused illness or discomfort.”
Trader Joe’s has reassured customers that the recalled basil has been pulled from the affected stores and is no longer available for purchase. Customers who have bought the basil can return it for a refund. For additional information or assistance, customers can contact Trader Joe’s customer service directly.
