Whole Foods Market has issued a recall for select salsas, guacamole, pico de gallo, and other prepared foods containing jalapeños due to potential Salmonella contamination. The recall was announced on Wednesday and affects products sold online and in stores across 12 states.
The recalled items, which include multiple varieties of guacamole, salsa, and prepared foods, were distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors and have best before dates between August 7 and August 16. No illnesses have been linked to these products, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Immediate Action Required
Customers who purchased any of the recalled products should not consume them and are advised to discard the items or return them to any Whole Foods Market store for a full refund. The affected products were sold in the following states: Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, and Ohio.
Broader Outbreak Investigation
The recall is part of a larger multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to fresh jalapeños supplied by Coast Citrus Distributors. Federal investigators have identified a potential source of contamination in Sinaloa, Mexico, where the jalapeños were grown. The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with state and local partners, are actively investigating the outbreak.
Other major food chains, including Chipotle, QDOBA, and Taylor Farms, have also recalled products containing jalapeños from the same supplier. Taylor Farms recently announced a voluntary recall of more than a dozen products, which prompted Whole Foods to take action.
Official Statements and Safety Measures
A Whole Foods spokesperson stated that the recall was initiated due to the inclusion of jalapeños from the Taylor Farms recall. The company emphasized its commitment to customer safety, noting that no illnesses have been reported in connection with its recalled products.
The FDA has stated that it does not currently consider there to be an ongoing risk from the establishments involved in the outbreak, as they have removed the affected products from their stores.
Symptoms and Health Risks
Salmonella infections can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps within 8 to 72 hours of exposure. Most healthy individuals recover within a few days to a week without treatment, though severe cases may require medical attention.
For a full list of recalled products, customers are encouraged to visit the FDA’s website. The agency continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as the investigation progresses.