Almost all sick people purchased organic walnuts from bulk bins in food co-ops or natural food stores in California and Washington.

A CDC food safety alert regarding a multistate outbreak of E. coli infections has been posted:

Key Points:

• CDC has received reports of 12 people from 2 states who have been infected with this outbreak strain of E. coli.
• Seven people have been hospitalized and 2 people have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome. No deaths have been reported.
• Almost all sick people purchased organic walnuts from bulk bins in food co-ops or natural food stores in California and Washington.
• FDA determined that Gibson Farms, Inc supplied these walnuts and Gibson Farms, Inc has recalled these products.
  • These walnuts have expiration dates between May 21, 2025, and June 7, 2025.
  • Ask the store where you purchased if recalled walnuts were sold.
  • Some stores may repackage bulk walnut halves and pieces into plastic clamshells or bags.
• FDA has a list of stores that may have received these walnuts.

What People Should Do:

• If you bought organic walnut halves and pieces from bulk containers, see if yours might be part of the recall.
• Check your pantries, refrigerators, and freezers for walnuts. If you can’t tell if it’s part of the recall, it’s safer not to eat them.
• Wash items and surfaces that may have touched the walnuts using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
• Call your healthcare provider if you have any severe E. coli symptoms.

For more information go to the CDC’s website.