Peanut Butter Contaminated with Salmonella

On January 13, 2009, a recall was issued by the Peanut Butter Corporation of America (PCA), a peanut processing company and maker of peanut butter for bulk distribution to institutions, food service industries, and private label food companies because of potential salmonella contamination. The recalled peanut butter was sold in bulk packages between five (5) and fifty (50) pounds. The potentially affected peanut butter products were produced on or after July 1, 2008.

PCA announced the recall after an open container of King Nut brand peanut butter in a long-term care facility in Minnesota was found to contain a strain of salmonella. King Nut is produced by PCA. It is not sold in retail stores but is only distributed to institutions such as long term care facilities, school cafeterias, and restaurants.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) received reports of 388 cases of salmonella typhimurium contracted between September and December. The reports came in from across 42 states. Additionally, three deaths have now been linked to the salmonella outbreak. Salmonella typhimurium, the outbreak strain, is one of the most common forms of salmonella. Salmonella causes cramping, diarrhea and fever. Most people infected with salmonella become symptomatic 12 to 72 hours after infection. Salmonella poisoning usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most people recover without treatment. Salmonella poisoning poses the greatest threat to the very young, very old and people with comprised immune systems.

PCA is working closely with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as state officials in this ongoing investigation.

According to a CDC update, preliminary analysis of an epidemiologic study conducted by health officials and the CDC suggests peanut butter as a likely source for the widespread outbreak. They are continuing to analyze data or exposures that may be associated with salmonella.

If you or a loved one suffered salmonella poisoning caused by PCA peanut butter products, contact us today for a confidential and free case evaluation.