Deadly Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Peanut Butter Sparks Widespread Recalls

A potential link to a deadly salmonella outbreak has led to the recall of various peanut butter-containing products, including Little Debbie snacks, after government officials advised consumers to avoid eating cookies, cakes, ice cream, and other foods with peanut butter. The voluntary recall by McKee Foods Corp. of Collegedale, Tenn., is the latest in a string of recalls following the most recent guidance by health officials.

Key Takeaways:

• The recall affects over 470 people in 43 states, with at least 90 hospitalizations and six deaths attributed to the outbreak.
• The outbreak is linked to peanut paste and peanut butter produced at a facility owned by Peanut Corp. in Blakely, Ga.
• Food products affected by the recall include Little Debbie peanut butter crackers, Peter Pan peanut butter, and candies containing peanut butter from Peanut Corporation of America.
• The recall covers crackers produced on or after July 1, and officials are focusing on peanut paste and peanut butter as the source of the contamination.
• The voluntary recall by McKee Foods Corp. is a result of the government's advisory to avoid eating foods with peanut butter.
• No complaints of illnesses have been reported from consumers who ate the Little Debbie products, but officials are still investigating the outbreak.

Statistics:

• Over 470 people have gotten sick in 43 states due to the outbreak.
• At least 90 people had to be hospitalized.
• Six deaths are being blamed on the outbreak.
• The outbreak is linked to peanut paste and peanut butter produced at a facility owned by Peanut Corp. in Blakely, Ga.
• The recall covers crackers produced on or after July 1.
• Salmonella bacteria are the most common source of food poisoning in the U.S.

Sources:

• THE ASSOCIATED PRESS WASHINGTON -- (no publication date provided)
• Suicide Prevention Lifeline: [1-800-273-TALK (8255)] (no publication date provided)