3 People From Wisconsin Get E. coli Linked To Salad Kits

MILWAUKEE, WI — Three people from Wisconsin are among the nine people from three states whose E. coli infections have been linked primarily to Fresh Express Sunflower Crisp Chopped Salad Kits.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Health and Human Services, the E. coli O157 bacteria was found in a bag of chopped Fresh Express brand Leafy Green Romaine lettuce with a use by date of 11/14/2019 and lot code of Z301 A05B. The source of the romaine identified on the packaging was Salinas Valley, California.

Health officials stress that while the bacteria was found in a bag of Fresh Express brand romaine, it is important to note that not all those who fell ill in Wisconsin that are included in this outbreak have reported consuming Fresh Express brand salads.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is recommending that people avoid consuming any products containing romaine lettuce from Salinas Valley, California, regardless of brand.

While some romaine-containing products were recalled on November 21, 2019, romaine from Salinas Valley is still available on many store shelves. It is important to look at product labels for any mention of Salinas Valley, California, and avoid purchasing these products, health officials in Wisconsin said.

As of December 9, 2019, Wisconsin now has 33 cases included in this multi-state outbreak. Evidence indicates that romaine lettuce from the Salinas, California, growing region is the likely source of this outbreak.