Federal health officials are warning consumers not to purchase over two dozen salad and wrap products from Kroger, Trader Joe’s, and Walgreens due to concerns about possible parasite contamination. The products were produced between July 15 to 18 with either the “Best by,” “Enjoy by,” “Best if sold by” or “Sell by” dates ranging from July 18 through July 23. The news of this recall comes after numerous recalls over salmonella and cyclospora concerns.

On Monday, the USDA issued a public health alert advising that people avoid certain beef, pork, and poultry salad and wrap products that might be contaminated with cyclospora:

“The cyclospora parasite causes intestinal illness as a result of consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms can begin a week or more after consuming the parasite. They can include diarrhea and frequent, sometimes explosive bowel movements, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those who are infected might also experience loss of appetite, weight loss, stomach cramps or pain, nausea, gas and fatigue. Vomiting, headache, fever, body aches and flu-like symptoms can also occur.

The incubation period ranges from two to 14 days.

The illness can last a few days to a few months, and patients might feel better, but then get worse again. Cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics.”1

Click here to see a full list of the products affected by the recall.

The issue was discovered when Indianapolis-based food distributor Caito Foods “received notification from their lettuce supplier, Fresh Express, that the chopped romaine that is used to manufacture some of their salads and wraps was being recalled.”2

If you have purchased any of these products please DO NOT EAT THEM and please make sure to share this story with your family and friends. You can either throw them away or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

Sources and References

  1. CNN, July 31, 2018.
  2. CNN, July 31, 2018.