CDC Reports Multiple Hospitalizations as California Woman Files Lawsuit Against Grimmway Farms
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on November 20, 2024, that an E. coli outbreak connected to organic bagged carrots has resulted in one death and multiple hospitalizations across the United States. The contaminated products, distributed by Grimmway Farms under various brand names, including Bunny-Luv and store brands for major retailers, have prompted a nationwide recall. A California woman has filed a lawsuit following her three-day hospitalization, marking the first legal action in this outbreak. The strain identified in the outbreak is E. coli O121:H19, a dangerous variant capable of producing Shiga toxin.
5 Key Points
- Contaminated organic carrots are sold under multiple brand names, including Bunny-Luv, Kroger, Publix, Target, Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Wegmans, and Whole Foods.
- One death was confirmed, with over a dozen hospitalizations reported nationwide.
- E. coli strain O121:H19 was identified as the source of infections.
- The lawsuit was filed in Kern County, California, on November 19, 2024.
- CDC advises immediate disposal of potentially contaminated carrots and thoroughly cleaning contact surfaces.
Initial Discovery and Consumer Impact
When she saw the news report during her morning routine, Melinda Pratt discovered she had purchased the contaminated Bunny-Luv carrots on November 20, 2024. Her experience with E. coli began on October 10, when she developed symptoms after consuming carrots purchased on September 30. “I had it on my news channel, and I heard the carrots thing, and I leaned to look at the TV, and the Bunny-Luv carrots were on the screen,” Pratt said. “I stopped everything then, and I went straight to my refrigerator and saw that I had those carrots.” Her condition deteriorated rapidly, progressing from mild symptoms to severe illness requiring hospitalization by October 21.
Medical Response and Symptoms
Dr. Nicole Iovine, chief hospital epidemiologist at the University of Florida Health, explains that identifying E. coli infections presents unique challenges because symptoms mirror other foodborne illnesses. The specific strain involved, E. coli O121:H19, produces Shiga toxin that can destroy cells and damage tissue. Pratt’s case exemplifies the severity of symptoms: “It went from having diarrhea from a few times a day, which was manageable, even stomach flu manageable, to upwards to about 10 to 15 times in one day,” she recounted. After admission to the hospital on October 21, Pratt received treatment for three days, including pain and nausea medications.
Agricultural Practices and Contamination Risk
Dr. Iovine attributes particular risks to organic farming methods, noting specific vulnerabilities in their agricultural practices. “In general, organic farms have less oversight than large, traditional-type farms,” she explained. “Organic farms are more likely to use compost or manure rather than commercially bought fertilizers. If the compost is not properly processed such that pathogens naturally present in animal stool survive, the soil will become contaminated.” This insight provides context for the current outbreak, as the affected products were certified organic carrots distributed across major retail chains.
Company Response and Legal Action
Grimmway Farms faces legal challenges following the outbreak, with the first lawsuit filed in Kern County, California Superior Court on November 19, 2024. The company told CNN, “We are taking this matter seriously and conducting a thorough review of our operations consistent with our ongoing commitment to providing customers with safe, high-quality produce.” Attorney Ron Simon has established a Grimmway Farms E. Coli Claim Center to represent affected consumers. The outbreak has impacted products sold under multiple brands, including Kroger, Publix, Target, Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Wegmans, and Whole Foods store brands.
FAQ
Q: What are the symptoms of E. coli from the contaminated carrots?
A: Initial symptoms include light diarrhea with bloody mucus, which can progress to severe diarrhea (10-15 times daily), vomiting, and stomach cramps. Symptoms typically begin 3-4 days after consuming contaminated food. Young children and older adults face higher risks of severe infections.
Q: Which carrot brands are affected by the E. coli outbreak?
A: The outbreak affects organic bagged carrots sold under these brands: Bunny-Luv, Kroger, Publix, Target, Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Wegmans, and Whole Foods store brands. Grimmway Farms produced all affected carrots.
Q: What should I do if I have purchased these carrots?
A: Do not eat the carrots. Throw them away immediately and clean any surfaces or items that touch them using hot, soapy water. If you stored the carrots with other foods, consider disposing of those items as well to prevent cross-contamination.
Q: How is E. coli infection treated?
A: Most E. coli infections resolve independently with supportive treatment, primarily focusing on hydration. Some cases may benefit from antibiotics, though certain strains (like O157:H7) can worsen with antibiotic treatment. Seek medical attention for severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, or inability to keep fluids down.
Q: How can I prevent E. coli infection from vegetables?
A: The CDC recommends washing hands frequently, following safe food preparation guidelines, and thoroughly washing all fruits and vegetables before eating—even if labeled as pre-washed. Dr. Iovine specifically advises peeling root vegetables like carrots, as dirt cannot be completely removed from their surface.
Q: What should I do if I think I’ve been infected?
A: If you experience severe symptoms like bloody diarrhea, intense stomach cramps, or inability to keep fluids down, seek immediate medical attention. Keep track of what foods you’ve eaten recently and report your illness to your local health department if you suspect it’s linked to the outbreak.
Citations
Tupper, Sam. (November 20, 2024). Dozens are sick in E. coli outbreak linked to carrots. Here’s what to know about symptoms and how it spreads. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/19/health/e-coli-carrot-recall-symptoms-wellness
