### E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Organic Carrots Results in One Death and 39 Infections

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently probing an E. coli outbreak tied to organic carrots distributed in at least 18 states. The contaminated carrots have been implicated in at least 39 infections, 15 hospitalizations, and one fatality since early September.

The outbreak has been traced back to various sizes and brands of bagged organic baby and whole carrots, which were recently recalled by Grimmway Farms. This carrot producer, based in Bakersfield, California, issued the recall on Saturday. Due to their potentially widespread presence in homes, Grimmway Farms has advised consumers to either discard the carrots or return them to the point of purchase.

The recalled products include baby organic carrots with best-if-used-by dates from September 11 to November 12 and whole organic carrots sold between August 14 and October 23. These products, marketed under different brand names such as Grimmway Farms, Sprouts, Trader Joe's, Wegmans, and Good & Gather, were likely removed from stores but may still be in consumers' possession.

The CDC notes that the actual number of cases might be higher, given that it can take up to four weeks to confirm if a sick individual is part of the outbreak. Additionally, many who contract the infection recover without medical intervention and are not tested for E. coli.

Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, the bacteria strain linked to the outbreak, typically causes symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, vomiting, and dizziness three to four days after consumption. While most people recover within a week, vulnerable populations like young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems face greater risks.

Grimmway Farms' President and CEO Jeff Huckaby emphasized the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of its products. The company's food and safety team is collaborating with suppliers and health authorities to address the issue comprehensively. "The health of our customers and the integrity of our products are our highest priorities," Huckaby stated.

The CDC advises that anyone experiencing severe E. coli symptoms should reach out to a healthcare provider immediately.