Shigella contamination of baby carrots

Food Poisoning Possible From 'Genuine Sweet Baby Carrots'

By Daniel J. DeNoon
WebMD Medical News

Reviewed By Louise Chang, MD

Aug. 23, 2007 -- Bags of baby carrots sold by King Sooper, Ralphs, Publix, and Trader Joe's have been recalled because of possible Shigella contamination.

The recalled products are:

* 7-ounce and 8-ounce bags of baby carrots labeled "Los Angeles Salad Genuine Sweet Baby Carrots" with a sell-by date of Aug. 16, 2007, or earlier.
* 7-ounce bags of baby carrots labeled "Trader Joe's Genuine Sweet Baby Carrots" with a sell-by date of Aug. 8, 2007, or earlier.

The carrots were sold in several states:

* In Colorado by Kroger Co. King Sooper
* In California by Kroger Co. Ralphs
* In Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, South Carolina, and Florida by Publix
* In Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington by Trader Joe's

Shigella are bacteria that cause diarrhea (which may be bloody), fever, nausea, and vomiting. Illness usually lasts from four days to two weeks. The infection may be severe in very young people, very old people, or people with compromised immune systems.

Infection can be passed from person to person.

There have been four cases of food poisoning associated with the carrots, all in Canada. All four patients recovered.

The voluntary recall is a precautionary measure undertaken by the Los Angeles Salad Co., of City of Industry, Calif.

Consumers who have purchased the products may return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Those with questions may contact Los Angeles Salads at (626) 322-9017.