Falafel bites recalled because of deadly E. coli outbreak linked to Grimmway Farms carrots

Fabalish Inc. of Carlstadt, NJ, is recalling Kickin’ Carrot Falafel Bites because they may be contaminated with E. coli O121:H19, which is associated with an outbreak. 

This recall is being conducted in response to a nationwide recall initiated by Grimmway Farms of their organic whole carrots and baby carrots. Although no illnesses have been confirmed in connection with the falafel bites, the Food and Drug Administration has determined that the Grimmway Farms carrots are responsible for an outbreak that has sickened 39 and killed one. 

Grimmway Farms initiated a recall of its carrots which are sold under dozens of brands and in bulk.

The falafel product was distributed in Florida, New York, Washington, Tennessee, California, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, New Hampshire, Virginia, Georgia, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, Kansas, Texas, Massachusetts and Montana. These products were also sold directly to consumers through the Fabalish website at www.fabalish.com. This product comes in a 10-ounce orange box and labeled as “Fabalish Kickin’ Carrot Falafel Bites” with the lot code 260925 found on the side flap.

Consumers who have purchased the affected Fabalish Kickin’ Carrot Falafel Bites are urged to discard in the trash and send a photo to orders@fabalish for a full refund. Consumers with any questions may contact the company at 201-942-2900.

About E. coli infections

Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled falafel product and developed symptoms of E. coli infection should seek medical attention and tell their doctor about their possible exposure to the bacteria. Specific tests are required to diagnose the infections, which can mimic other illnesses. 

Food that is contaminated with E. coli may not look, smell or taste spoiled.  

The symptoms of E. coli infections vary for each person but often include severe stomach cramps and diarrhea, which is often bloody. Some patients may also have a fever. Most patients recover within five to seven days. Others can develop severe or life-threatening symptoms and complications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

About 5 to 10 percent of those diagnosed with E. coli infections develop a potentially life-threatening kidney failure complication, known as a hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Symptoms of HUS include fever, abdominal pain, feeling very tired, decreased frequency of urination, small unexplained bruises or bleeding, and pallor. 

Many people with HUS recover within a few weeks, but some suffer permanent injuries or death. This condition can occur among people of any age but is most common in children younger than five years old because of their immature immune systems, older adults because of deteriorating immune systems, and people with compromised immune systems such as cancer patients. 

People who experience HUS symptoms should immediately seek emergency medical care. People with HUS will likely be hospitalized because the condition can cause other serious and ongoing problems such as hypertension, chronic kidney disease, brain damage, and neurologic problems.

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