With grocery store prices the way they are, many of us have been sticking to the tried and true basics like PB&J sammiches for the kids because they love them, and honestly, who can stand listening to kids complain about food right now?
Well, I have some bad news.
Jif just announced a voluntary recall after a salmonella outbreak that has hit 12 states, sickening 14 people.
So far, two folks have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported, thank goodness.
The FDA announced the voluntary recall today in a statement noting the dangers of salmonella.
“Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis, and arthritis,” the FDA wrote.
The peanut butter in question was distributed across the country in retail stores and other outlets. It is critical that anyone who purchased Jif recently look at the lot code, which is usually near the expiration or best used by date. The affected lot codes are 1274425 – 2140425.
The FDA advises that if you have one of the products included in this list to dispose of it immediately.
They also note that “consumers who have questions or would like to report adverse reactions should visit www.jif.com/contact-usExternal Link Disclaimer or call 800-828-9980 Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM ET.”
Jif peanut butter has a very long shelf life so be sure to check the lot number on your jar to make sure it is safe.
If you have a jar of peanut butter that is included on the recall list that has touched anything in your home, including surfaces,containers, and utensils, immediately wash contaminated items with hot, soapy water and throw away the peanut butter.
According to the CDC, you should call a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms after eating any product on the recall list:
Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102°F
Diarrhea for more than 3 days that is not improving
Bloody diarrhea
So much vomiting that you cannot keep liquids down
Signs of dehydration, such as:
Not peeing much
Dry mouth and throat
Feeling dizzy when standing up
Keep your kids and family safe and throw out any product that matches the lot numbers mentioned above.
If you have an open jar that matches that list, watch out for symptoms of salmonella poisoning. Call your doctor immediately if you or your family have any symptoms.