If you’ve recently purchased fresh produce from Trader Joe’s, specifically green onions, there’s a vital recall you should know about. Trader Joe’s has pulled its green onions from shelves in 28 states and Washington, D.C., due to a possible contamination with salmonella.
This recall is part of a more significant issue involving green onions distributed by Church Brothers Farms, a well-known vegetable supplier.
What Prompted the Recall?
The recall began after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) discovered salmonella while routinely testing Church Brothers Farms green onions.
Following the CFIA’s findings, Church Brothers Farms issued a recall for 1,271 cases of green onions, cautioning consumers to avoid eating the product.
States Affected by the Trader Joe’s Green Onion Recall
Trader Joe’s green onions impacted by the recall were sold in the following locations:
- Washington D.C.
- Alabama,
- Connecticut,
- Delaware,
- Florida,
- Georgia,
- Iowa,
- Illinois,
- Indiana,
- Kansas,
- Kentucky,
- Massachusetts,
- Maine,
- Maryland,
- Michigan,
- Minnesota,
- Missouri,
- Nebraska,
- New Hampshire,
- New York,
- North Carolina,
- Ohio,
- Pennsylvania,
- Rhode Island,
- South Carolina,
- Tennessee,
- Vermont,
- Virginia, and
- Wisconsin.
How to Identify the Recalled Green Onions
The affected Trader Joe’s green onions come with a “pack date” of September 25, 2024. If you have any of these in your fridge, it’s crucial that you either discard them or return them to your local Trader Joe’s for a full refund.
In addition to Trader Joe’s products, the recall affects Church Brothers-brand and Imperial Fresh-brand green onions, with lot code CB272378. If you’ve purchased these brands, you should discard them immediately.
No Reported Illnesses So Far—But Safety First
So far, no illnesses have been reported concerning these green onions. However, since salmonella can be severe, especially for vulnerable populations like young children, older people, and people with compromised immune systems, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
Even healthy individuals infected with salmonella can experience symptoms like fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
What Is Salmonella and Why Is It Dangerous?
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause infections in humans. It’s commonly found in contaminated food, incredibly raw or undercooked meats, eggs, and sometimes fresh produce like green onions.
Once ingested, the bacteria can cause food poisoning.
Symptoms of salmonella infection can appear between 6 hours to 6 days after consuming contaminated food. While most people recover without needing medical treatment, some cases can become severe, leading to dehydration, hospitalization, or even long-term health issues.
Symptoms of Salmonella to Watch For
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that if you have consumed green onions and are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately:
- Fever higher than 102°F
- Signs of dehydration (such as dark urine, dry mouth, and dizziness)
- Bloody diarrhea or vomiting
- Diarrhea that lasts more than two days
- Severe abdominal cramping
What to Do If You Have the Recalled Green Onions
Trader Joe’s has urged anyone who purchased the recalled green onions to throw them away or return them to the store for a refund. If you have further questions about the recall, you can also contact Trader Joe’s customer service at (626) 599-3817.
For consumers who purchased the Church Brothers or Imperial Fresh green onions with lot code CB272378, similar steps should be taken.
You are advised to dispose of the green onions or contact Church Brothers Farms through their Consumer Hotline at (877) 590-0428 or via email at consumerinfo@churchbrothers.com.
What Is Trader Joe’s Doing About the Recall?
Trader Joe’s works closely with Church Brothers Farms to ensure the recall is handled quickly and efficiently. Their goal is to remove the potentially contaminated product from the market as soon as possible to avoid any risk to customers.
Church Brothers Farms, on the other hand, is actively notifying all retailers and food service customers who may have received the affected product and encouraging them to comply with the recall.
Both companies are taking this issue seriously and putting consumer safety first.
How to Stay Safe When It Comes to Food Recalls
Food recalls can be unsettling but are an essential safety measure to prevent illness.
The CDC, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and other agencies regularly update their websites with information about ongoing food safety concerns if you want to stay informed about future recalls.
Some tips to keep in mind:
- Always wash fresh produce thoroughly before eating, even if it’s pre-packaged or labeled “pre-washed.”
- Check for food recalls regularly, especially for frequently purchased items like fresh vegetables or meats.
- If you experience symptoms after eating food that was part of a recall, seek medical advice immediately.
- Be extra cautious if you or someone in your household is at higher risk for foodborne illnesses, such as young children, the elderly, or anyone with a weakened immune system.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s green onions sold in 28 states and Washington D.C. are recalled due to potential salmonella contamination. While no illnesses have been reported, discarding the product or returning it to the store for a refund is crucial.
Similar recalls have been issued for Church Brothers and Imperial Fresh green onions.
While it’s a relief that no one has become ill from this batch of green onions, food safety is always a priority. Be mindful of the recall, watch for symptoms of salmonella, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family.
For more information, you can contact Trader Joe’s customer service or Church Brothers Farms through their hotline. Stay informed about food recalls to keep your kitchen healthy and safe.
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