Organic walnuts linked to E. coli outbreak in 19 states, officials say

Coming nearly two years after a massive outbreak of E. coli in organic spinach that sickened at least 200 people in 23 states, causing kidney failure in at least 30 of them, federal health officials are now warning consumers to avoid a brand of organic walnuts linked to 12 cases of food poisoning in California and Washington.

The walnuts were sold in bulk at natural food stores, including Whole Foods and Market of Choice, across 19 states, and seven people have been hospitalized as a result of the contamination, with two cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome, a dangerous kidney disease, being reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Gibson Farms Inc. of Hollister, California, has recalled walnuts with expiration dates between May 21, 2025, and June 7, 2025, and the Food and Drug Administration has posted a list of locations where the nuts were sold, warning that some stores may have repackaged bulk walnut pieces into clamshells or bags.

In a statement, the CDC said the walnuts are "potentially contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli," which can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, including bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. Symptoms usually begin three to four days after consuming the food, and most people recover within five to seven days.

The agency is advising people who purchased the walnuts to throw them away and contact a healthcare provider if they experience symptoms, adding that "recalled walnuts should not be sold or served."

If you have the recalled walnuts in your home, the FDA recommends throwing them away in a secure container where animals cannot access them.

Consumers with questions can call the Gibson Farms Inc. at 1-800-627-9066.