Romaine Lettuce E. coli Outbreak Spreads; Source Still Unknown
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced that the Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to romaine lettuce from the Yuma, AZ, growing region continues to expand.
As of yesterday, CDC confirmed 84 cases in 19 states with 42 hospitalizations. No deaths have been reported, and no food product or company has been forced to initiate a recall. However, a company by the name of Giant Eagle did voluntarily recall a variety of deli salad products and boxed lunches that contain romaine lettuce. Giant Eagle may have an ingredient supply partner in the Yuma, AZ area. Giant Eagle’s recall was announced out of an abundance of caution. There are no reported illnesses among Giant Eagle customers to date associated with their recall.