Trader Joe’s Recalls Peanut Butter Over Salmonella Risk
Trader Joe’s has voluntarily recalled their Trader Joe’s Valencia Creamy Salted Peanut Butter after the product was linked to salmonella infections, which have sickened 29 people in 18 states.
The grocery chain and federal health officials have warned consumers not to eat the peanut butter, especially not children under 5, elderly, and people who have weak immune systems, reports NBC News.
The Food and Drug Administration announced the recall, saying that the Trader Joe’s peanut butter has been linked as a possible cause for the outbreak of salmonella Bredeney.
The product has been pulled from the store’s shelves nationwide, and the company has also posted an advisory on their web page. For those who have purchased the peanut butter, they can return it to any Trader Joe’s store for a full refund.
FDA officials have also said they are working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as local and state health officials, to investigate what they are calling a “fast-moving outbreak.” The agency added that, “FDA’s top priority is protecting consumers and ensuring the safety of our food supply.”
Patch.com notes that the multi-state outbreak of salmonella began in June and, while the Trader Joe’s Valencia Creamy Salted Peanut Butter hasn’t tested positive at any state labs so far, but the company doesn’t want to risk their product making any one else sick.
Anyone who consumed the product in recent months and became ill afterwards is encouraged to consult their health care provider. Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps between 6 and 72 hours after they become infected. The sickness lasts about 2 to 7 days and does not usually require treatment.
