FDA looking for the source of E. coli in a multi-state outbreak

Federal officials are continuing to investigate an outbreak of E.coli infections, but a source of the pathogen has not yet been found.

The Food and Drug Administration first announced the outbreak on April 17 when there were nine patients. The patient count has grown to 12. The agency has not yet reported where the patients live.

The FDA has begun traceback efforts in the E. coli outbreak but has not reported what food or foods are being traced.

The only other active outbreak investigation under FDA jurisdiction is related to organic, fresh basil. The Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak has sickened 12 people, resulting in one hospitalization.

Investigators have traced the Salmonella outbreak to fresh organic basil sold by the Infinite Herbs company under its and Melissa’s brands. Trader Joe’s stores across 30 states sold the Infinite Herbs brand basil. Melissa’s brand basil was sold at Dierbergs stores in Illinois and Missouri.

On April 18, Infinite Herbs LLC of Miami, FL, recalled 2.5-ounce packages of Infinite Herbs brand fresh organic basil sold at Trader Joe’s stores in 30 states and Fruit Center Marketplace in Massachusetts from Feb. 1 through April 6.

On April 19, Infinite Herbs LLC expanded the recall to include Melissa’s organic basil sold in 2 and 4-ounce packages at Dierberg’s stores in Illinois and Missouri between Feb. 10 and Feb. 20.

Both brands of recalled basil are no longer available for sale, and any previously purchased basil should be past its shelf life. If you previously purchased recalled basil and then froze it, you should throw it away if it’s part of the recall or if you cannot tell if it’s part of the recall.

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