An investigation is underway by the CDC, FDA, and state health professionals into an outbreak of E Coli that's been linked to romaine lettuce from Salinas, California.

According to a FDA press release, "Consumers should not eat romaine lettuce harvested from Salinas, California" along with Missa Bay salad products. To see the list of recalled items, CLICK HERE.

From September 24, 2019 to November 10, 2019, 40 people in 16 states have been infected with the outbreak strain. There's been one reported case in Montana, according to the CDC.

At this time, romaine lettuce that was harvested outside of the Salinas region has not been implicated in this outbreak investigation. Hydroponically- and greenhouse-grown romaine, which is voluntarily labeled as “indoor grown,” from any region does not appear to be related to the current outbreak. There is no recommendation for consumers or retailers to avoid using romaine harvested from these other sources.

According to the FDA, here are some steps consumers can follow to avoid foodborne illness:

  • Wash the inside walls and shelves of the refrigerator, cutting boards and countertops, and utensils that may have contacted contaminated foods; then sanitize them with a solution of one tablespoon of chlorine bleach to one gallon of hot water; dry with a clean cloth or paper towel that has not been previously used.

  • Wash and sanitize surfaces used to serve or store potentially contaminated products.

  • Wash hands with warm water and soap following the cleaning and sanitation process.

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