In response to potential contamination with salmonella bacteria, The Quaker Oats Co. has announced a recall of 24 additional products. This comes after the company recalled dozens of cereals, granola bars, and snacks last month. The recall includes certain flavors of Cap'n Crunch and Oatmeal Squares cereals, additional types of Chewy granola bars, some Gatorade protein bars, and more.

With this latest announcement, the total number of Quaker products recalled since December 15 has exceeded 60. The recalled items, which are sold in various sizes and packaging, include Quaker Chewy bars and cereals, Gamesa Marias Cereal, Munchies Munch Mix, Gatorade bars, and Cap'n Crunch bars, cereals, and instant oatmeals.

Consumers are advised to dispose of any recalled products, which are distributed throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, and Saipan. To determine if a product has been recalled, customers can use the SmartLabel feature on Quaker's product packaging by scanning a QR code. The company is also offering reimbursements for affected products.

As of December 15, Quaker has not confirmed any illnesses related to the recalled products. There is no information available on whether any illnesses have been reported since then. Quaker has yet to comment on the matter.

It is important to note that the recall does not include Quaker oats, instant oats, grits, oat bran, oat flour, or rice snacks.

Salmonella, one of the most common bacteria causing foodborne illnesses, is difficult to track. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there are over 1 million foodborne cases of salmonella in the U.S. each year. The symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, which typically resolve within a week without the need for antibiotics.

In recent news, the CDC has reported 24 cases of salmonella linked to ready-to-eat charcuterie meats and over 300 cases and 130 hospitalizations linked to cantaloupes since October. To prevent illness, the CDC advises individuals to refrain from consuming pre-cut cantaloupe unless they can be certain it did not come from the brands Malichita or Rudy.

While Quaker Oats remains committed to ensuring the safety of its products, consumers are urged to stay vigilant and take the necessary precautions to protect their health.