March 10, 2016 — Wonderful Pistachios, Paramount Farms, and Trader Joe’s have recalled pistachios after an outbreak of Salmonella sickened 11 people in nine states.
Two people were hospitalized but no deaths have been reported. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued an update to report the following case count by state:
Alabama (1), Arizona (2), Connecticut (1), Georgia (1), Michigan (1), Minnesota (1), North Dakota (1), Virginia (1), and Washington (2).
The CDC said eight out of nine people who were interviewed (89%) said they ate pistachios before getting sick, including five who ate Wonderful pistachios. Investigators went to the farm where the pistachios are grown and isolated the outbreak strain, Salmonella Montevideo.
The pistachios had “Best By” dates in October and November 2016. They were sold in-shell or shelled, roasted, salted or unsalted, and some had flavorings like sweet chili. Click here for a list of lot numbers (PDF).
This is the third recall for Salmonella in pistachios this year, but the first linked to any illnesse. On February 1, Braga Organic Farms issued a recall for pistachios, trail mix, and nut mixes. On February 12, International Foodsource LLC recalled bulk-size and Valued Naturals Raw Pistachio Kernels (5-oz bags).
Salmonella infection can cause fever, diarrhea (may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Infections can cause serious complications or even death for high-risk individuals, such as children, older adults, and people with vulnerable immune systems. According to the FDA:
“In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.”
Do I have a Food Poisoning Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting pistachio induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been diagnosed with Salmonella, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Food Poisoning Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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