Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Moringa Leaf in Powdered Supplements
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A multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections has been linked to powdered supplements containing moringa leaf, prompting a food safety alert from teh Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC).The CDC examination is ongoing, with potential for additional products to be recalled as more facts becomes available.
The CDC posted a food safety alert regarding the outbreak on October 25, 2023: https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/outbreaks/supplement-10-25/index.html.
Eleven sick, Hospitalizations Reported
As of this report, 11 individuals across seven states have been confirmed as having contracted the same strain of Salmonella. Three of those infected have required hospitalization, though thankfully, no deaths have been reported. “Interviews with sick people and leftover product testing identified supplement powder containing moringa leaf as a source of illness in this outbreak,” a CDC statement confirmed.
Traceback Points to Indian Importer
The Food and Drug Management (FDA) has traced the source of the contamination to a single lot of organic moringa leaf powder imported from Vallon Farm Direct PVT LTD in India. This importer supplies moringa leaf powder used in various supplement products.
Sam’s Club Recalls Super Greens supplements
In response to the outbreak, Sam’s Club has voluntarily ceased sales of all lots of Member’s Mark Super Greens powdered supplements containing moringa leaf powder. The CDC warns that as the investigation progresses, further products utilizing moringa leaf powder from this importer might potentially be subject to recall.
What You Should Do
Consumers are strongly advised to avoid consuming Member’s Mark Super Greens powdered supplements containing moringa leaf powder. Any such products should be discarded or returned to the point of purchase. Additionally, individuals should thoroughly wash any surfaces and utensils that may have come into contact with the recalled supplements using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.
Individuals experiencing severe Salmonella symptoms should seek medical attention instantly.These symptoms include:
- Diarrhea accompanied by a fever exceeding 102°F
- Diarrhea lasting more than three days without improvement
- Severe vomiting preventing the retention of liquids
Guidance for Businesses
Businesses, including retailers and food service establishments, are instructed to discontinue the sale or service of Member’s Mark Super greens powdered supplements containing moringa leaf powder. Thorough washing and sanitization of all items and surfaces potentially exposed to these products are also required.
Understanding Salmonella
Salmonella infection typically manifests as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps within six hours to six days of exposure. While most individuals recover within four to seven days without treatment, severe cases can necessitate hospitalization. Certain populations – children under five, adults 65 and older, and individuals with compromised immune systems – are at a heightened risk of developing severe illness.
State and Media Inquiries
individuals with questions regarding cases within a specific state are encouraged to contact their state’s health department directly. Members of the media seeking further information are directed to submit a Request for Comment form to the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/media/index.html.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
Content Source: Office of Communications (OC)
