What Prompted the 2024 Carrot Recall?
The carrot recall 2024 began when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) traced a cluster of E. coli infections to organic carrots distributed by Grimmway Farms. Investigations revealed contamination in both organic whole carrots and organic baby carrots sold between August and November 2024. The contaminated carrots were distributed to grocery stores nationwide, Puerto Rico, and Canada.
Impact of the E. Coli Outbreak
- States Affected: Cases have been reported in 18 states, including California, Texas, New York, and Virginia.
- Case Count: 39 illnesses, 15 hospitalizations, and 1 death.
- Source of Contamination: Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), a dangerous bacteria that can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms and, in rare cases, kidney failure.
Organic Carrot Recall: Brands and Dates
The recall encompasses a wide range of organic carrots sold under different brand names at major retailers. These products are likely no longer in stores but may still be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers.
Whole Carrots
Recalled organic whole carrots do not have “best if used by” dates. They were sold between August 14 and October 23, 2024, under brands such as:
| Label | Bag Sizes | Sample Product Image |
|---|---|---|
| 365 | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb |  |
| Bunny Luv | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb, 10lb, 25lb |  |
| Cal-Organic | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb, 6lb, 10lb, 25lb |  |
| Compliments | 2lb |  |
| Full Circle | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb |  |
| Good & Gather | 2lb |  |
| GreenWise | 1lb, 25lbs |  |
| Marketside | 2lb |  |
| Nature’s Promise | 1lb, 5lb |  |
| O Organic | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb, 10lb |  |
| President’s Choice | 2lb |  |
| Simple Truth | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb |  |
| Trader Joe’s | 1lb |  |
| Wegmans | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb |  |
| Wholesome Pantry | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb |  |
Baby Carrots
Recalled organic baby carrots have “best if used by” dates ranging from September 11 to November 12, 2024. Brands include:
| Label | Bag Sizes | Best if used by:From | Best if used by:Through | Sample Product Image |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 365 | 12oz, 1lb, 2lb | 9/11/24 | 11/02/24 |  |
| Bunny Luv | 1lb, 2lb, 3lb, 5lb | 9/11/24 | 11/12/24 |  |
| Cal-Organic | 12oz, 1lb, 2lb, 2pk/2lbs | 9/11/24 | 11/02/24 |  |
| Compliments | 1lb | 9/14/24 | 10/24/24 |  |
| Full Circle | 1lb | 9/14/24 | 10/24/24 |  |
| Good & Gather | 12oz, 1lb | 9/14/24 | 11/02/24 |  |
| GreenWise | 1lb | 9/11/24 | 10/26/24 |  |
| Grimmway Farms | 25 lb bag | 9/11/24 | 10/03/24 | |
| Kroger | 2lb | 9/14/24 | 11/02/24 | |
| LIDL | 1lb | 9/16/24 | 11/07/24 | |
| Marketside | 12oz, 1lb, 2lb | 9/11/24 | 11/02/24 |  |
| Nature’s Promise | 1lb | 9/13/24 | 10/25/24 |  |
| O Organic | 12oz, 1lb, 2lb | 9/11/24 | 11/02/24 |  |
| President’s Choice | 1lb, 2lb | 9/11/24 | 11/02/24 |  |
| Raley’s | 1lb | 9/14/24 | 10/23/24 |  |
| Simple Truth | 1lb | 9/14/24 | 10/20/24 |  |
| Sprouts | 1lb, 2lb | 9/13/24 | 11/04/24 |  |
| Trader Joe’s | 1lb | 9/13/24 | 11/04/24 |  |
| Wegmans | 12oz, 1lb, 2lb | 9/14/24 | 11/02/24 |  |
| Wholesome Pantry | 1lb, 2lb | 9/16/24 | 11/07/24 |  |
Consumers should discard any recalled carrots and sanitize storage areas to prevent cross-contamination.
Stores Affected by the Carrot Recall
The recalled carrots were sold at major retailers across the U.S. and Canada, including:
- Walmart
- Publix
- Trader Joe’s
- Whole Foods
- Kroger
- Loblaws (Canada)
Grimmway Farms has contacted distributors and issued public notices to ensure the products are no longer sold. However, long storage life means contaminated carrots could still be in homes.
Symptoms of E. Coli Poisoning
E. coli O121 can cause symptoms such as:
- Severe stomach cramps
- Bloody diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever
Symptoms usually appear 3-4 days after exposure. In severe cases, individuals may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that can lead to kidney failure. Vulnerable populations, including children under five, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, are at higher risk.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical care if experiencing:
- Diarrhea lasting more than three days
- Bloody stool
- Fever over 102°F
- Symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth or dizziness
What Should Consumers Do?
Disposal and Cleaning
- Dispose of Recalled Products: Throw away affected carrots immediately. If unsure of the brand, err on the side of caution and discard.
- Sanitize Surfaces: Clean all surfaces and containers that may have come into contact with the carrots using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.
Refund Options
Many retailers are offering refunds for recalled products. Check with the store where you purchased the carrots for more details.
Preventing Future Contamination
Grimmway Farms is reviewing its farming and processing practices to prevent similar outbreaks. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about recalls and practice safe food handling, including washing produce thoroughly and avoiding cross-contamination in the kitchen.
The organic carrot recall highlights the importance of food safety in preventing E. coli outbreaks. If you purchased organic whole or baby carrots recently, check your refrigerator and dispose of any recalled products immediately. Stay vigilant about food recalls to protect your health and that of your family.
