E. coli Outbreak In Minnesota Linked To Baby Spinach

MINNESOTA — State and federal health officials are investigating an outbreak of E. coli O157 infections that were linked to eating organic baby spinach. There have been no hospitaizations.

So far at least two people — one in the Twin Cities metro and one in rural Minnesota — have been infected. One purchased their spinach from HyVee, while the other from Fresh Thyme.

The Minnesota Department of Health says the brands they bought that are now linked to E. coli are:

• Josie’s Organics organic baby spinach
• Fresh Thyme organic baby spinach

Both brands are made by Braga Fresh, according to authorities. Minnesota health officials say consumers should not eat Josie’s Organics organic baby spinach and Fresh Thyme organic baby spinach with a best-by date on or around Oct. 23.

"If they have it in their refrigerators, to throw it out," officials said.

Other outbreak cases are being investigated in other states, the Department of Health said.

Symptoms of illness caused by E. coli O157 typically include stomach cramps and diarrhea, often with bloody stools, with low-grade or no fever.

People can become ill two to eight days after exposure, and most recover within five to 10 days. However, E. coli can be more serious in children under 10 and the elderly, and people with weakened immune ystems.

Find out more information here.