A widespread Salmonella outbreak has prompted Trader Joe's to recall peanut butter in 30 different states. Peanut butter sold under the brand name Trader Joe's Valencia Salted Peanut Butter made with Sea Salt has been linked to Salmonella illnesses in 19 states. There were also several other affected brands of peanut butter distributed by the same manufacturer that provide Trader Joe its peanut butter and other nut spread products.
Sunland, Inc., the New Mexico-based peanut plant that manufacturers peanut and other nut products to grocery stores such as Trader Joe's also provides nut-based products to Target, Stop and Shop Supermarket Company, Harry and David, Whole Foods Market, Fresh and Easy, Sprouts, Heinen's and Giant Foods. Recalled products have Best-if-Used-By dates between May 01, 2013 and September 24, 2013. Overall, there have been no new Salmonella-related illnesses reported and no deaths.
Salmonella illness is characterized by diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. It is most dangerous to children, pregnant women, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems. Sunland Inc. has also included a .PDF on their website that they will continually update with affected products that consumers should discontinue using and throw away.
