Walmart Recalls Romaine Lettuce from October 2020 Over E. coli Concerns

Before making yourself a salad, check the label on your lettuce. Some romaine lettuce packaged in October 2020 and sold at Walmart has been recalled due to an E. coli outbreak, NBC News reports.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 12 E. coli cases have been reported in six states, including Pennsylvania, California, and Illinois. At least five patients have been hospitalized.

The CDC suspects the infections are linked to contaminated lettuce sold under the brand name Tanimura & Antle. Though lab testing matched the E. coli strain in patients to bacteria from a sample of Tanimura & Antle's single-head romaine lettuce, the CDC can't say conclusively that the lettuce caused the outbreak. As the investigation continues, Walmart has decided to voluntarily recall all Tanimura & Antle romaine lettuce that was packaged on October 15 and October 16.

The potentially contaminated product was shipped to 19 states and Puerto Rico before the recall. Due to its short shelf life, the lettuce was likely removed from stores a while ago, but it may still be hanging around in some people's crisper drawers. If you have Tanimura & Antle lettuce in your fridge at home, look for a "packed on" date of 10/15/2020 or 10/16/2020. If you think you've already eaten the recalled product, watch out for symptoms like stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea: These are all signs of E. coli infection.

[h/t NBC News]