Peanut Butter Recalled Amid Salmonella Fears
A peanut butter recall was announced by nSpired Natural Foods, Inc. on August 19. The voluntary recall was issued after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration identified a potential risk of Salmonella contamination. Officials have confirmed four illnesses, which “may be associated” with nSpired Natural Foods peanut and almond butters.
In many patients, a Salmonella infection causes abdominal cramping, diarrhea, nausea, fever, and vomiting. However, the infection can be deadly for young children, patients with compromised immune systems and the elderly.
Although rare, the infection can enter the bloodstream. In severe cases, a Salmonella can cause arterial infection, arthritis, and endocarditis. As discussed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 42,000 people are infected with Salmonella every year. Of those patients, an estimated 400 people will die.
The infection is commonly transmitted through contaminated food products, pet reptiles and birds. Although Salmonella is most often associated with poultry, at least one serious outbreak was traced to contaminated peanut butter.
In 2012, 42 people in 20 states were sickened by peanut butter manufactured by Sunland, Inc. Although no deaths were reported, 28 percent of those infected required hospitalization. As discussed by the CDC, more than half of those infected “were children under the age of 10 years.”
The recall issued by nSpired Natural Foods, Inc., has not been associated with an outbreak. However, the company has recalled an extensive list of products — as a precaution.
The voluntary peanut butter recall includes Arrowhead Mills, MaraNatha, Kroger, Safeway, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods brands of almond and peanut butter. The “best by” dates on the products range between December 2014 and July 2015. All recalled products were packaged in plastic or glass jars.
Officials confirmed that the products were distributed throughout Canada, the Dominican Republic, Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates, and the United States. The products were also made available for purchase online.
nSpired Natural Foods, Inc. is urging anyone in possession of the recalled peanut butter products to throw them away. Consumers can contact the company at 1-800-937-7008 with any questions about the recall or to request a refund.
Although a Salmonella infection is rarely deadly, anyone experiencing symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Officials with nSpired Natural Foods, Inc. underline the fact that the peanut butter recall was voluntary. Although four illnesses “may be associated” with the company’s products, it has not been confirmed.
The complete list of recalled products is available on the FDA website.
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