Whole Genome Sequencing and Epidemiology tightens E. coli Outbreak linked to Simple Truth Organic brand and the Nature’s Basket brand

Since the last update on December 30, 2021, CDC updated the case definition and removed three illnesses from this outbreak investigation. These three people were infected with E. coli bacteria that were not as closely related genetically to the rest in this outbreak. None of the three sick people reported eating Organic Power Greens.

As of January 6, 2022, a total of 10 people infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7 have been reported from four states. Illnesses started on dates ranging from November 27, 2021, to December 9, 2021.

Alaska – 2
Ohio – 1
Oregon – 1
Washington – 6

Sick people range in age from 26 to 79 years, with a median age of 59, and 100% are female. Of ten people with information available, four have been hospitalized and one person developed a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). No deaths have been reported.

The true number of sick people in an outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses. This is because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for E. coli. In addition, recent illnesses may not yet be reported as it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak.

State and local public health officials interviewed people about the foods they ate in the week before they got sick. Nine people reported eating Organic Power Greens sold under the Simple Truth Organic brand (8) and the Nature’s Basket brand (1), and seven people’s shopper records showed the purchase of these products. Both brands of Organic Power Greens have the same mix of leafy greens: organic spinach, mizuna, kale, and chard.

Republished with permission from Bill Marler and Marler Clark. Copyright (c) Marler Clark LLP, PS. All rights reserved.