Romaine Lettuce E Coli Outbreak – What You Need To Know

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control, FDA and Canadian officials are conducting a multi-state traceback of romaine lettuce that is tied to an outbreak of e coli throughout many states in the United States. This traceback began in late November and continues through present day.

Here’s what you need to know to avoid any contaminated lettuce:

• California counties that are included in the outbreak investigation are; Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz and Ventura. The FDA is warning that other counties could be added as the investigation continues.
• Romaine lettuce entering the market will now be labeled with a harvest location and a harvest date or labeled as being hydroponically- or greenhouse-grown. If it does not have this information, you should not eat or use it.
• If you purchase romaine lettuce that does not have proper labeling on it, the FDA is advising you to not eat this lettuce.
• If you’ve already purchased romaine lettuce and you do not know where it was harvested, do not eat or serve this lettuce.
• Wash and sanitize all surfaces where romaine lettuce was stored or came in contact with.
• If you are experiencing symptoms of E coli, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

For more on this outbreak and the continued investigation by the FDA and CDC, click here.