Multistate Vegetable Recall Initiated due to Cyclospora Contamination Concerns

Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) posted information about the voluntary recall of three varieties of vegetable trays from select retailers in multiple Midwest states. In all, the recall impacted six states and occurred after the food processor was notified by state agencies of an illness outbreak and its potential involvement.

The vegetable trays may be linked to a recent cluster of illnesses and have the potential to be contaminated with Cyclospora, a parasite that can cause the intestinal illness Cyclosporiasis. It is an intestinal infection caused by consuming food or water contaminated with the microscopic parasite. The primary symptom is watery diarrhea that lasts from a few days to several months. Additional symptoms often include loss of appetite, fatigue, weight loss, abdominal cramps, bloating, increased gas, nausea, vomiting and a low fever. Symptoms may come and go multiple times over a period of weeks or months. Some people who become infected do not show any symptoms.

“Over the years, there have been a number of produce recalls associated with Cyclospora contamination,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “At EMSL, we help to prevent foodborne illnesses through testing for Cyclospora and other foodborne and environmental pathogens. A proactive testing program can help to eliminate costly product recalls and all of the medical and legal fees often associated with these types of events. Testing is also vital to identify the source of an outbreak if one has already occurred to prevent further infections.”

EMSL has even sponsored an educational video about Cyclospora and infection risks that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/jxjhl4uY7Yo.

To learn more about Cyclospora or other microbial pathogen and food testing services, please visit www.FoodTestingLab.com or www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com .

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with over 45 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail