Organic Walnuts from Whole Foods are being pulled from the salad bar due to possible E. coli contamination. The affected products were sold in Whole Foods Markets in 3 different states. The US Food and Drug Adminitration (FDA) reported the recall, which was issued voluntarily by the manufacturer, Gibson Farms, on April 26. Read on for more details, including exactly which products the recall includes and what to do if you’ve purchased them
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Organic Walnut Recall At Whole Foods
According to Gibson Farms and the FDA, the recalled walnuts, labeled Organic Light Halves and Pieces Shelled Walnuts, are potentially contaminated by E. coli, a bacteria that "causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools," Gibson Farms said in their statement. The following walnuts were recalled:
- Organic Light Halves and Pieces shelled walnuts sold in 25-lb quantities with Lot #s: 3325-043 & 3341-501 and expiration dates 5/21/25 & 6/7/25.
These walnuts were found in the salad bar, and not the bulk bins.
E. Coli Contamination
There is an on-going E. coli outbreak occurring in the Inited States, and according to the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), 12 individuals have reported illnesses linked to the consumption of the walnuts, 7 of which were hospitalized.
The specific strain that these walnuts are contaminated with, E. coli O157:H7, "causes a diarrheal illness often with bloody stools," the recall states. And while most healthy adults will recover within a week, "some people can develop a form of kidney failure called Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). HUS is most likely to occur in young children and the elderly. The condition can lead to serious kidney damage and even death."
What To Do If You've Consumed Or Purchased The Contaminated Walnuts
If you've consumed the walnuts and are experiencing adverse symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. If you've purchased the walnuts, do not eat them and dispose of them immediately. Consumers with questions may contact the company at Veronica Cheatham 831-637-3512 or email foodsafety@gibsonfarmsinc.com 8:30 am-4:40pm PST Monday through Friday.
