CDC: Basil Salmonella

The CDC issued warning on possible Salmonella contamination on packed fresh basil leaves sold at Trader’s Joe. Here’s what we know so far: 1. The CDC has received reports of 12 Salmonella infections in seven states. One person has been hospitalized and no deaths have been reported. 2. The packed basil in question is under the brand name, Infinite Herbs Organic Basil. 3. The basil was sold in 1.5 oz clam shell style containers at Trader’s Joe in 29 states and DC. 3. Trader’s Joe ceased shipment of Infinite Herbs on April 12, 2024 and no products remains on their stores. 4. Ongoing investigation if other products are also contaminated. The CDC urges consumers to throw away the packed basil and for businesses not to carry the Infinite Herb basil product at this moment that the product is under investigation. According to CDC, the symptoms of Salmonella infections includes: “diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Symptoms usually start 6 hours to 6 days after swallowing the bacteria. Most people recover without treatment after 4 to 7 days. Some people—especially children younger than 5 years, adults 65 years and older, and people with weakened immune systems—may experience more severe illnesses that require medical treatment or hospitalization.”