What We Know About the Grimmway Organic Carrots E. coli Outbreak
CDC and FDA linked 48 E. coli O121:H19 illnesses, 20 hospitalizations, 1 death, and 1 case of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) across 19 states to organic whole and baby carrots grown by Grimmway Farms of Bakersfield, California. Illnesses started between September 6 and November 10, 2024, and CDC declared the outbreak over on December 18, 2024.
The Recall Covered Many Brand Names
On November 16, 2024, Grimmway Farms voluntarily recalled multiple sizes and brands of bagged organic whole and baby carrots. The recall expanded on November 21 to include additional bag sizes. Because Grimmway supplies organic carrots to many retailers and store brands, the recall covered carrots sold under Whole Foods Market 365, Trader Joe’s, Wegmans, Sprouts, Cal-Organic, Bunny Luv, and Nature’s Promise brand names. Consumers were advised to check their refrigerators, freezers, and pantries for any recalled carrot products.
Shiga Toxin and Why HUS Cases Matter
E. coli O121:H19 is a Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). Like the better-known O157:H7 strain, O121 can cause severe bloody diarrhea and progress to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a complication where the toxin damages blood vessels and kidneys. HUS can require dialysis and cause permanent kidney damage. Children under 5 face the highest risk. One person in this outbreak developed HUS, and one person died.
Investigation and Confirmation
Whole genome sequencing matched the strain in clinical samples to bacteria from Grimmway-grown carrots, providing definitive evidence of the link. CDC and FDA worked with state and local partners to interview sick people and trace the carrots back through the supply chain. Most reported eating organic carrots in the week before getting sick.
Your Legal Rights
If you or your child ate recalled Grimmway organic carrots and developed laboratory-confirmed E. coli O121:H19 infection, your family may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, hospitalization costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. Cases involving HUS or kidney injury carry particularly significant value because of the severity and potential long-term impact.
Ron Simon & Associates is a food poisoning law firm that has recovered over $850 million for victims nationwide. Our E. coli attorneys focus exclusively on foodborne illness litigation and are reviewing claims from this outbreak. You pay our law firm nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Contact us for a free consultation at 1-888-335-4901.