An E. coli outbreak has sickened 13 people across six states, U.S. authorities said this week.
The infected people became sick between Nov. 27 and Dec. 9, range in age from 4 to 79, and are primarily female.
The true number of sick people is likely higher because many people recover without medical care and are not tested for E. coli, a bacteria that has harmless and harmful strains.
The bacterial outbreak has been linked to packaged salads—Simple Truth Organic Power Greens and Nature’s Basket Organic Power Green. Both packages feature the same mix of leafy greens—organic spinach, mizuna, kale, and chard.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says people should not consume packaged power greens or organic power green with “best if used by” dates through Dec. 20.
Officials said none of the items that are believed to be contaminated are still on the market.
People usually get sick from E. coli two to eight days after exposure.
Symptoms of E. coli include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, dehydration, and vomiting.
Americans should contact their health providers if they experience any of the symptoms.
In addition, people who had the products in question should wash any items and surfaces that may have touched them.
Simple Truth is a Kroger organic brand. Nature’s Basket is a Giant Eagle brand.
Kroger and Nature’s Basket did not respond to requests for comment.
