Fresh Express Lettuce E. coli Recall
A potential E. coli O157:H7 contamination has prompted a Fresh Express lettuce recall, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The recalled lettuce that may be contaminated has expired “use-by” dates between July 8 and July 12. They also contain an “S” in the product code. The recalled lettuce was distributed in Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wyoming, Washington and Nevada. According to the FDA announcement, the recall is being issued because:
“one package of Fresh Express Hearts of Romaine salad yielded a positive result for E. coli O157:H7 in a random sample test collected and conducted by a third-party laboratory for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration….upon learning about the positive test result, Fresh Express conducted a traceability assessment and a full review of its food safety documentation…”
The recall announcement is aimed at both consumers who may have this product at home and retailers who should pull the product off shelves. There are many types of lettuce involved in the recall. Consumers should check their refrigerators for the types of Fresh Express bagged lettuce listed on the FDA recall announcement.
E. coli Symptoms and Risks
E. coli is a dangerous pathogen that can cause painful symptoms including abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea. It can progress into a life-threatening complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (E. coli HUS) that can cause kidney failure and even death. Those who think they may have an E. coli infection should visit a doctor immediately.
Tags: E. coli HUS, Lettuce E. coli
