New E. coli outbreak linked to organic walnuts distributed in 19 states

An E. coli O157:H7 outbreak linked to organic walnuts has prompted a recall by Gibson Farms Inc. The FDA issued a warning after over half of those affected required hospitalization. The walnuts, distributed to natural food stores and co-ops across 19 states, were sold in bulk bins. Consumers are advised to dispose of the recalled products immediately. Identified cases span California and Washington, with seven patients hospitalized and two experiencing acute kidney failure. Ten interviewed patients reported consuming organic walnuts from bulk bins in co-ops or natural food stores, some of which may have been repackaged. Delays in reporting illnesses may mean more cases remain unidentified. The FDA's investigation traced the contamination to Gibson Farms Inc., which initiated the recall and notified distributors. The agency is working with them to determine the contamination source and potential impact in other states. The affected states include Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.