Taylor Farms Pacific Incorporated, which operates in Tracy, California, has issued a recall on certain products that are being sold in Costco for a possible contamination with E. coli bacteria.
According to an immediate press release from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the company is exercising extreme caution since it may contain a blend of diced onion and celery, which is also present in potential contaminated Costco rotisserie chicken salad.
The chicken salad is now being linked to a number of E. coli cases in more than five states. At least 19 people have already reported getting sick, although there's still no casualty. A sample has already been analyzed by Montana health officials, who discovered the bacteria contamination.
The rotisserie chicken salad was purchased by customers from October 18 to November 23. It has a use-by date up to December 8 from November 20. Those who have purchased the salad within the mentioned period and whose product has the specific use-by date should avoid eating it.
The present recall covers a food service bag of diced celery or celery sticks, which are both sold in Costco. The FDA and Taylor Farms are also recalling a food service bag of diced onion and celery and turkey dinner veggie bag, which are also sold in the store.
However, the recall extends to similar products that are sold in other stores including 7/11, King Sooper, and Pantry, and Raleys. For a complete list, visit here.
Because of the massive coverage, health authorities believe that there may be more reported E. coli cases in the coming weeks. In the meantime, those who have purchased these products are advised not to consume them, to return them to the store, or to dispose them properly.
E. coli is a kind of bacteria that can cause digestive issues such as diarrhea or abdominal cramps. While many can survive it, those with poor immune system, old, or young are considered high risk. It can also become severe, leading to kidney failure.