A recall has been issued for some Fresh Express brand salad products after an outbreak of cyclospora-related illnesses in the United States.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said so far, no illnesses have been reported in Canada, but over 200 illnesses have been reported in the United States in connection with the recalled products, primarily in the Midwest states.
Some of the common symptoms associated with cyclosporiasis, which is caused by the cyclospora parasite, include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, body aches and fatigue. The CFIA said few people get seriously ill and the infection is usually treated with antibiotics.
Fresh Express issued the recall for its salads containing iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, and/or carrot ingredients late last week.
The recall covers several brands of the Fresh Express Chopped Kits including Chipotle Cheddar, Thai ’N’ Cashews, Sunflower Crisp, Asian and Southwest, as well as its American, Veggie Lover’s, Iceberg Garden, SHREDS Ice Berg, Green & Crisp and 3 Color Deli Cole Slaw brands.
The affected salads are clearly marked with the letter Z at the beginning of the Product Code, which is located in the upper right-hand corner of the front of the package.
You can read the full CFIA recall here.
Recalled products were distributed to select retail stores across North America in June.
The CFIA is still investigating and says recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the store where they were purchased.