Trader Joe's recalls organic basil product after FDA links it to salmonella poisoning
Shahid Meighan
A brand of organic basil sold at Trader Joe's stores has been recalled after it was found to have a connection to a strain of salmonella that is sickening people, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has announced.
Infinite Herbs brand organic basil has been removed from Trader Joe's shelves in Ohio and some other states while the FDA investigates the origins of salmonella infections.
"Trader Joe’s has already voluntarily removed all Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil packed in 2.5-oz clamshell packaging from their store shelves and this product should no longer be available for sale to customers at their stores," the FDA said on their website. Seven of the eight cases of salmonella reported to the FDA reported eating that organic basil purchased from Trader Joe's before becoming ill, the agency said.
The FDA also stated that a total of 12 people from seven states have been infected with the salmonella strain, but no Ohio cases have been reported.
There are seven Trader Joe's stores in Ohio, including one at Easton Town Center in Columbus, according to the chain's website.
Infinite Herbs L.L.C. is based in Miami, and while the FDA has determined that they are the supplier of some of the product involved in the salmonella outbreak, the agency said they may not be the only ones. The FDA investigation is continuing.
@ShahidMeighan