Guide to the 2024 Carrot Recall Affecting Costco and Other Retailers
Introduction
In November 2024, a significant recall of organic whole and baby carrots was issued due to an E. coli outbreak, affecting several major retailers including Costco. This guide provides essential information on the recall, the affected products, and the steps consumers should take to ensure their safety.
Reason for the Recall
The recall is linked to an E. coli outbreak investigation conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). The outbreak has resulted in 39 reported illnesses, 15 hospitalizations, and one death across 18 U.S. states[3][4].
Affected Products
The recalled carrots were produced by Grimmway Farms and were sold under various brand names. Here are the key details about the affected products:
Organic Whole Carrots
These carrots were available for purchase from August 14 through October 23, 2024.
They often do not have a best-if-used-by date printed on the bag.
Brands affected include 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Compliments, Full Circle, Good & Gather, GreenWise, Marketside, Nature’s Promise, O Organic, President’s Choice, Simple Truth, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, and Wholesome Pantry[1][3][4].
Organic Baby Carrots
These carrots had best-if-used-by dates ranging from September 11 through November 12, 2024.
The same brands as the whole carrots are affected, including those sold under store brands like Trader Joe’s, Target’s Good & Gather, and Whole Foods’ 365[2][3][4].
Retailers Involved
The recalled carrots were sold at numerous popular retailers, including:
Costco
Walmart
Kroger
Sprouts
Target
Trader Joe’s
Whole Foods
Wegmans
and more[1][3][4].
Actions for Consumers
Given that the recalled products may still be in consumers’ homes, here are the steps to take:
Identification
Check your carrots for the brand names and date ranges mentioned above.
Be aware that whole carrots may not have a best-if-used-by date.
Disposal
If you have any of the recalled carrots, do not consume them.
Destroy or discard the carrots to prevent any potential consumption.
Cleaning and Sanitizing
Clean and sanitize any surfaces that the recalled carrots may have come into contact with to prevent cross-contamination[2][3].
Health Precautions
If you or a family member has consumed the recalled carrots and is experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection (such as severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting), contact a medical professional immediately[2][3].
Contact Information
For consumers with questions or who have products in their possession:
Contact Grimmway Farms’ customer service desk at 1-800-301-3101, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 8 pm ET, or visit www.grimmway.com[2].
Conclusion
The 2024 carrot recall is a serious public health issue, and it is crucial for consumers to be aware of the details to protect themselves and their families.
Most Important Facts
E. coli Outbreak: The recall is due to an E. coli outbreak that has caused 39 illnesses, 15 hospitalizations, and one death across 18 U.S. states.
Affected Products: Organic whole and baby carrots produced by Grimmway Farms and sold under various brand names, including store brands like 365, Good & Gather, and others.
Retailers: Carrots were sold at Costco, Walmart, Kroger, Sprouts, Target, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Wegmans, and more.
Date Ranges: Whole carrots were sold from August 14 to October 23, 2024, and baby carrots had best-if-used-by dates from September 11 to November 12, 2024.
Consumer Action: Do not consume the recalled carrots; destroy or discard them, and clean and sanitize any surfaces they touched.
Health Precautions: Seek medical attention if symptoms of E. coli infection occur after consuming the recalled carrots.
Contact Information: Consumers can contact Grimmway Farms at 1-800-301-3101 or visit www.grimmway.com for more information.
