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Fresh Basil Recalled in Multiple States for Salmonella Risk

Geo Sandler 4 min read
Fresh Basil Recalled in Multiple States for Salmonella Risk
Image via Trader Joe's

A recall for Infinite Herbs Organic Basil was recently announced by Trader Joe’s after an investigation by the CDC. This basil might have salmonella, which is an illness-causing bacteria. Up until now, 12 people from seven states have gotten sick, and one person has had to stay in the hospital. Luckily, no one has died.

The CDC thinks more people might be sick from this outbreak than the number reported because not everyone tells when they’re sick. Plus, the problem could be in more states than we know about now. The basil was sent to places like Alabama, Connecticut, and many others, totaling 29 states plus Washington DC.

The basil in question was sold in a small 2.5-ounce clear plastic box between February 1, 2024, and April 6, 2024. It has a special number on it: UPC# 8 18042 02147 7. Trader Joe’s has taken the basil off their shelves, but some people might still have it at home.

If you bought this basil during those dates, you shouldn’t eat it. You can throw it away or take it back to any Trader Joe’s store for a full refund. For questions, you can call Trader Joe’s Customer Relations at (626) 599-3817, or visit their website.

Stay aware of other recalls too, such as collard greens for listeria concerns and nuts for salmonella risk. Some Trader Joe’s products have been returned because of deadly listeria, and one commonly bought item because it might have plastic. Diet and fizzy drinks have been taken back for unwanted foreign materials, and certain stores had to recall BBQ pork. Frozen fruit and salad kits may have listeria; fruit from Trader Joe’s could have hepatitis A; and fruit like cantaloupes might also have salmonella.

salmonella 2
Salmonella can cause many foodborne illnesses.

Taking back products can be a big move to prevent people from getting sick. Keep up with the news to stay safe and informed!

Understanding the Basil Recall and Its Implications

⁤Trader Joe’s decision to recall Infinite Herbs Organic Basil is a testament to their commitment to customer safety. ⁤⁤With reports linking the basil to the spread of salmonella, now is a crucial time to prevent an outbreak. ⁤⁤Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause serious issues to your health, like stomach pain, fever, and diarrhea, which could eventually lead to hospitalization. ⁤⁤Trader Joe’s acted swiftly by removing the tainted product from shelves, effectively preventing any further damage. ⁤

⁤Making sure that the food we eat are safe and healthy should be at the top of everyone’s priority. ⁤⁤When contaminated products get recalled, it’s usually because someone got sick, and the company responsible wants to help stop others from getting sick too. ⁤⁤Our responsibility as consumers is to follow all recall instructions and return the affected products or we should make an effort to dispose them safely and responsibly. ⁤⁤The unique UPC code on the packaging helps to identify the specific batch of basil involved. ⁤

⁤This whole incident reminds us that it’s not just basil you need to watch out for. ⁤⁤Food recalls can be done on other products like nuts, collard greens, or fruits. ⁤⁤Each of them has their own set of risks. ⁤⁤Companies will usually give you instructions on how to get a refund or replace the product and they’ll provide a phone number and redirect you to their websites for more assistance. ⁤

⁤Staying informed about news regarding the safety of our food is important. ⁤⁤Especially when it comes to food recalls. ⁤⁤Keeping up to date means we can do what we need to do to keep ourselves and our families from eating something that can potentially make you sick. ⁤⁤One of the silver linings here is how popular stores like Trader Joe’s truly cares about our health and takes quick action to protect us. ⁤⁤Remember, always check the latest news or reach out to stores if you’re unsure about a product you’ve bought. ⁤⁤It’s all about staying safe and enjoying good food without worry! ⁤

From The Club

Salmonella is a dangerous bacteria that can cause serious gastrointestinal problems when it enters our body. Apart from contaminated food, it is usually found in raw meat, raw eggs, and raw milk. It’s a good thing that Trader Joe’s is already on top of this situation so that the number of people affected will be reduced. Let’s all stay safe out there and do our part to make sure that this incident can be contained.