Deadly E. Coli Carrot Recall Could Affect Iowa, Illinois, & Wisconsin

A nationwide recall of organic whole and baby carrots due to potential E. coli contamination may impact residents in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin, though no cases of illness have been confirmed in these states yet. The contaminated carrots, supplied by Grimmway Farms, have already been linked to 39 illnesses and at least 1 death across 17 states, prompting the company to issue a voluntary recall to protect public health. Photos of possibly contaminated products are displayed throughout this article.

Grimmway Farms, based in Bakersfield, California, has recalled multiple sizes and brands of bagged organic whole and baby carrots sold across the U.S., including in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. While illnesses have been reported elsewhere, there’s no indication anyone in these three states has fallen sick so far. However, the recall applies to organic whole carrots purchased from August 14 through October 23, 2024, and organic baby carrots with best-if-used-by dates from September 11 through November 12, 2024. Photos of possibly contaminated products are displayed throughout this article.

The recall covers some of the most recognizable organic carrot brands, including 365, Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, and others. Whole carrots were sold in packages ranging from 1 lb. to 25 lbs., and baby carrots were distributed by brands like Kroger, LIDL, Sprouts, and GreenWise, with best-by dates clearly printed on their bags. These products were available at major grocery stores in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Grimmway Farms believes the carrots are past their shelf life in most stores, but warns they could still be sitting in consumer refrigerators or freezers. Photos of possibly contaminated products are displayed throughout this article.

E. Coli Risk and Symptoms

The contamination is caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, which is no small concern. This strain can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), fever, nausea, and vomiting. While most healthy adults recover in a week, more vulnerable groups—like children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems—could face serious complications. In extreme cases, it can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that can cause kidney failure and long-term health problems.

So far, 39 illnesses have been reported, with 15 people hospitalized and one death confirmed. Affected states include Arkansas, California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming. Thankfully, no cases have surfaced yet in Iowa, Illinois, or Wisconsin, but it’s still crucial for consumers in these states to check their homes for the affected carrots.

What Consumers Should Do

First, go through your fridge and freezer. If you find organic whole or baby carrots that match the recall description, don’t take any chances—throw them out. Even if you’re unsure of the brand, it’s better to discard them. Next, make sure to clean and sanitize any containers, surfaces, or storage areas the carrots may have touched. Finally, if you experience any symptoms of E. coli infection after consuming carrots, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider.

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Retailers & restaurants should double-check their inventory to ensure that all affected products are removed from shelves, bins, and inventory. It’s also essential to notify customers and sanitize equipment, storage areas, and bins that held these carrots to prevent cross-contamination.

The FDA and CDC are actively working with Grimmway Farms to trace the source of the contamination. Investigators have interviewed patients who became ill and found that 96% of them reported eating carrots, identifying the vegetable as a common link. Grimmway Farms has been cooperating fully and has already contacted distributors nationwide.

While no illnesses have been reported yet in Iowa, Illinois, or Wisconsin, this recall highlights the importance of staying aware when it comes to produce recalls. Residents in the Tri-States should take a moment to check their refrigerators and freezers and dispose of any recalled carrots. For the latest updates, keep an eye on the FDA and CDC food safety alerts. Acting quickly and carefully can prevent unnecessary illness and keep your household safe.