Grimmway Farms says carrots are safe ahead of Thanksgiving after E. coli outbreak
One of the companies involved in a recent voluntary recall of fresh carrots has announced that produce available in stores now is safe for consumption ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
"Consumers should know the following when shopping for their Thanksgiving table -- the carrots available for purchase on store shelves today are safe," Grimmway Farms told ABC News.
On Nov. 16, Grimmway issued a voluntary recall for select organic whole carrots and organic baby carrots due to concerns of an E. coli outbreak.
Grimmway's president and CEO Jeff Huckaby confirmed to ABC News that the "products affected by the recall are not available for purchase in grocery stores today."
"The health of our consumers and the integrity of our products are our highest priorities," he added.
The E. coli outbreak that was tied to organic whole and baby carrots from Grimmway Farms affected 39 people across 18 states and resulted in 15 hospitalizations and one death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The CDC and public health officials said in a statement on Sunday that although the affected products have been recalled, some previously purchased items may already be in people's homes.
What to know about carrot recall
The CDC report came after Grimmway Farms announced a recall on its website of organic whole carrots sold without a "best-if-used-by" date between Aug.14 and Oct. 23, 2024, and organic baby carrots with "best-if-used-by" dates from Sept. 11 to Nov. 12, 2024.
Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and dispose of any recalled carrots immediately.
Businesses should also ensure the recalled products are not being used or served.
What stores sold now recalled carrots
These products were distributed across the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada under various brand names, including Bunny Luv, Trader Joe's, Wegmans and Simple Truth. A full list of recalled items can be found here.
Grimmway Farms responds to carrot recall and E. coli outbreak
In an earlier statement on its website, Huckaby emphasized the company's commitment to safety.
"We take our role in ensuring the safety and quality of our products seriously," the statement read. "The health of our customers and the integrity of our products are our highest priorities, and we are conducting a thorough review of our growing, harvest, and processing practices. Our food safety team is working with our suppliers and health authorities."
What are E. coli symptoms?
The outbreak is caused by shiga toxin-producing E. coli, which can lead to severe symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting, according to the CDC.
While most people recover within a week, some may develop life-threatening kidney complications, the CDC says.
Those experiencing symptoms are advised to seek medical attention and inform their health care providers about recent food consumption.
An earlier version of this story was first published Nov. 17, 2024.
