FDA Issues Salmonella Outbreak Advisory Linked to Organic Basil

The FDA issued an advisory for a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium infections linked to organic basil sold at retail stores in 29 states.

Two brands of organic basil have been recalled:

• Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil packed in 2.5-oz clamshell packaging and sold at Trader Joe’s and Fruit Center Marketplace stores from Feb. 1-April 6.
• Melissa's brand fresh organic basil in 2.0-oz and 4.0-oz clamshell packages available for sale at Dierberg's stores in Illinois and Missouri from Feb. 10-20.
  

Both recalled brands of basil are labeled as a product of Colombia on the back of the package. Recalled basil is past expiration and should no longer be available for sale.

Based on epidemiological information collected by CDC, a total of 12 people infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella have been reported from seven states. Seven of eight cases with information available reported exposure to fresh organic basil purchased from Trader Joe's before becoming ill.