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FDA to Consumers: Don't Eat Pistachios

Two separate and large-scale recalls involving pistachio nuts have been announced in the last few days, due to possible salmonella contamination. And because the extent of the problem is net yet know -- including the specific products affected -- the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is telling consumers to avoid eating pistachio nuts and any products containing them.

On Tuesday, Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella (California) issued a nationwide recall of about 1 million pounds of pistachio nuts, after salmonella was found in roasted pistachios that were used in certain brands of trail mix. Get more information on the Setton Pistachio recall from the California Department of Public Health.

Last Friday, The Kroger Co. announced that it was recalling "Private Selection Shelled Pistachios" sold in its various retail stores because of possible salmonella contamination. According to the FDA, "stores under the following names in the 31 states where Kroger operates are included in this recall: Kroger, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Fry's, King Soopers, Smith's, Dillons, QFC, City Market, Foods Co., Jay C, Scott's, Owen's, Baker's, Gerbes, Hilander and Pay Less." Get detailed information on the Kroger Co. pistachio recall -- including affected products, stores, and states -- from the FDA.

People infected by salmonella bacteria can develop symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most persons recover without treatment. But occasionally, symptoms may be so severe that hospitalization is necessary. The elderly, infants, and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have severe illness. Learn more about salmonella and food poisoning.

• Setton Pistachio of Terra Bella Recall Information (California Dept. of Public Health)
• Kroger Co. Pistachio Recall Information (FDA)
• WebMD: FDA: Stop Eating Pistachios, Salmonella Feared
• Reuters: Pistachios Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk
• FDA Guidelines for Recalls (provided by The Epstein Law Firm)
• What is Salmonella? (FindLaw)
• Food Poisoning: Health and Legal Information (FindLaw)

Full post as published by FindLaw's Common Law on March 31, 2009 (boomark / email).