July 2, 2007
State and federal public health officials have warned
consumers not to eat Veggie Booty snack food. An ongoing investigation has
identified Veggie Booty as the source of a multi-state outbreak of
salmonellosis, with cases occurring as far back as early March.
The makers of Veggie Booty, Robert’s American Gourmet,
today announced an immediate recall of all Veggie Booty products.
Oregon is one of 17 states to have received reports of
salmonellosis cases linked to the outbreak, and has been involved in the
investigation that identified the source. At least 51 cases have been
identified nationally, almost all toddlers or infants.
One case has been reported in Oregon, according to
William E. Keene, senior epidemiologist in the Oregon Department of Human
Services Public Health Division.
“At this time we don’t have enough information to be
able to limit the recall to particular production lots,” Keene said.
“Anyone who has packages of Veggie Booty in their home should return it to
the store or throw it away.”
Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection that can cause
diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Symptoms usually develop within one to five
days after eating contaminated food. Most people get better without the
need for medical attention, but Keene advises anyone who has eaten Veggie
Booty and is ill with bloody diarrhea or diarrhea with fever to contact
their health care provider.
Nationwide, most of the individuals affected reported bloody diarrhea.
Five individuals were hospitalized, but all have been released. The
outbreak investigation is ongoing.
