The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an expanded recall on November 13, linking multiple moringa leaf powder products to an outbreak of salmonella infections that have affected at least 11 people across several states. The recall now includes more brands and product sizes, with health authorities urging consumers to check their purchases immediately.
Recall Affects Multiple Brands and Products
Initially, the recall was limited to all Member’s Mark “Super Greens” dietary supplement powders, regardless of lot codes or best-by dates. However, the FDA’s latest update includes products from the Food To Live brand. These include the company’s Organic Moringa Leaf Powder and Organic Supergreens Powder Mix, sold in various sizes ranging from 8 ounces to 44 pounds. Lot codes affected by the recall are marked from SO-69006 through SO-72558.
The FDA further revealed that one-kilogram boxes of Organic Moringa Leaf Powder sold on the Africa Imports website were also part of the recall, after testing found potential salmonella contamination in the batch. This product was distributed online and may have reached customers across the country.
In total, the recall now involves several brands and product types, all linked to a salmonella strain identified in investigations by both the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Growing Public Health Concerns Over Salmonella Outbreak
As of November 13, 11 cases of salmonella infection have been confirmed, with three individuals requiring hospitalisation. These cases span multiple states, including Virginia, and are believed to be connected to a single batch of organic moringa leaf powder from Vallon Farm Direct PVT LTD of Jodhpur, India. According to the FDA, this batch was distributed to multiple U.S. distributors, potentially affecting a broad range of consumers.
Salmonella infections typically present symptoms such as diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps, which usually develop within 12 to 72 hours after exposure. These symptoms can last anywhere from four to seven days, though some people, especially young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, are at greater risk of severe illness.
While no fatalities have been reported, health experts continue to warn vulnerable populations to be especially cautious and seek medical attention if symptoms appear. “Children younger than five, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe infections,” the FDA stated in its advisory.
The ongoing investigation into the source of the contamination is being closely monitored by the FDA, CDC, and local health authorities. The agencies are working together to identify the precise cause and scope of the outbreak, which appears to be linked to the widespread distribution of affected moringa products.
Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products are urged to dispose of them immediately or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. The FDA also recommends that anyone experiencing symptoms of salmonella infection seek medical advice promptly.
