ATLANTA -- A Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) and U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) investigation into the deaths of at least five people has determined that commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples are the likely source of the outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes infections (listeriosis).
Officials have reported 28 illnesses in 10 states: Arizona (4), California (1), Minnesota (4), Missouri (5), New Mexico (5), North Carolina (1), Texas (4), Utah (1), Washington (1) and Wisconsin (2). Illness onset dates range from Oct. 17, 2014, to Nov. 27, 2014.
No illnesses related to this outbreak have been linked to apples that are not caramel-coated and not prepackaged or to caramel candy. Although limited information is currently available about the specific brand(s) of commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples consumed, the finding that most of the ill people reported consuming these apples suggests that these Listeria infections are likely related to commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples.
Investigators are working to determine specific brands or types of commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples that may be linked to illnesses and to identify the source of contamination.
Out of an abundance of caution, the CDC recommends that U.S. consumers not eat any commercially produced, prepackaged caramel apples, including plain caramel apples as well as those containing nuts, sprinkles, chocolate, or other toppings, until more specific guidance can be provided. These products could have a shelf life of more than one month.
Two of the deaths have occurred in Minnesota. The Minnesota Departments of Health & Agriculture are working with the CDC and FDA. Minnesota officials are working with national partners to determine the scope of products affected.
Minnesota cases purchased caramel apples from Cub Foods, Kwik Trip and Mike's Discount Foods, which carried Carnival brand and Kitchen Cravings brand caramel apples. These two brands are no longer available for purchase at retail locations; however, health officials are concerned that persons who purchased them may still have them in their homes. The investigation is evolving, and other caramel apple brands and locations may also be affected.
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