Falafels From Aldi Stores In Rhode Island Recalled

RHODE ISLAND — Cuisine Innovations Unlimited recalled its Earth Grown Vegan Traditional Falafel and Garlic & Herb Fafalel, the Rhode Island Department of Health said Tuesday.

Rhode Island health officials said the recall was due to the possible presence of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli is an organism that can cause foodborne illness.

Symptoms of infection may include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. The illness primarily impacts older adults, children, and people with weakened immune systems. Most healthy adults and children rarely become seriously ill.

The recalled products were sold at Aldi stores in Rhode Island and several other states, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New York. In Rhode Island, there are Aldi locations in Cranston, Providence, Warwick, Rumford, North Smithfield, Middletown and Westerly.

The product comes in a bag in a box marked with any of the following lot numbers: 1472, 1481, 1531, 1532, 1541, 1552, 1561, 1581, 1601, 1611, 1612, 1661, 1682, 1732, 1752, 1762, 1782, 1802 and 1812. The products were shipped to stores after June 24, 2021. The lot number can be found in the “Best if used by” area on the outside flap of the box.

Health officials said there have been 20 reported cases of Shiga-toxin-producing E. coli, with onset dates reported between July 24, 2022 and Sept. 19, 2022. There have been five hospitalizations and no deaths. None of these cases were in Rhode Island.

Those who purchased the falafels are urged to return them for a full refund.