(KADN) — Salmonella outbreaks have caused recalls on everyday items from cantaloupe to meat but what's behind the spike?
Salmonella contamination is back in the news. However, this time we actually have two separate recalls and both of these are fairly large.
Quaker Oats issued a recall for many of its cereal bars and other products. They are all listed HERE so you can cross-check what you have at home.
NEW YORK (CNN) — Quaker Oats broadened its recall from last month to its granola bars, snacks and some varieties of its popular Cap’n Crunch cereal products sold nationwide due to possible Salmonella contamination.
There is also a recall for sliced charcuterie meats sold at Sam's and Costco. This recall was recently expanded to any lot code so if you have these, throw them out.
(CNN) — As cases of salmonella infections linked to recalled charcuterie meats double, the US Centers of Disease Control and Prevention expand…
What is salmonella and why should we be concerned?
Salmonella is a bacteria and the most common form of food-borne illness. Raw chicken is a major source. One in 25 packages at the store are contaminated. These packages leak, contaminating surfaces and utensils.
It's not limited to chicken. Contamination is widespread. We have had recent outbreaks linked to flour, peanut butter, fruit, and vegetables.
Fortunately for most, the symptoms are usually mild and include stomach cramps and diarrhea. Most people recover on their own in about five days. However, some do develop a more severe case and require treatment.
These foods will look, taste, and smell normal, so prevention is the key. Clean anything that comes into contact with raw or undercooked eggs or meat. Separate these items from ready-to-eat foods in your grocery cart, refrigerator, and countertop. Cook to a safe temperature. Depending on the item, that's 160° to 165°. Chill, as in never leave perishable food out more than two hours or one hour if it's hot outside (above 90°).
And, of course, throw out anything involved in a recall.
