Kellogg’s Honey Smacks Cereal Linked to Salmonella Outbreak Across 31 States
Kellogg’s Honey Smacks Cereal Linked to Salmonella Outbreak Across 31 States
A salmonella outbreak that has infected 73 people across 31 states has been linked to certain batches of Kellogg’s Honey Smacks cereal. According to an ABC News report, Kellogg has recalled packages of cereal that are either 15.3 ounces or 23 ounces in size and have a “best if used by” date printed on the top of the box between June 14, 2018 and June 14, 2019. The Centers for Disease Control is urging consumers to throw away or return the affected cereals that are covered by the recall. CDC is advising the public to throw away any remaining cereal.
Details of the Recall
The Food and Drug Administration has said it is linking the cereal to the outbreak of illnesses based on preliminary evidence. The FDA has apparently initiated an inspection of the facility that has been linked to the salmonella contamination. Both the CDC and FDA are working with Kellogg to initiate a recall and investigate the outbreak. Of the 73 who have been infected, at least 24 needed hospitalization.
So far, no deaths have been reported. People began falling ill in early March with others becoming infected through the end of May. Those who became ill range in age from infants to 87-year-olds. Of the 39 victims who were interviewed, 30 said they ate cold cereal and 14 recalled Honey Smacks in particular.
Salmonella: What You Should Know
The strain of salmonella involved in these cases is called “salmonella mbandakas.” Individuals typically get sick 12 to 72 hours after consuming the tainted food. Symptoms may include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps that could last anywhere from four to seven days. Most people recover on their own without medical treatment. However, if the infection becomes severe, spreading to the blood stream and other parts of the body, it could require hospitalization.
If you have been sickened after eating cereal, please get medical attention right away. The sooner you are treated, the greater your chances of recovery. Contact your local health agency to report your illness as they track these types of outbreaks. If you have any of the cereal you ate, isolate it and preserve it so it can be independently tested in a lab for the presence of bacteria. Contact an experienced food poisoning lawyer who will help you seek compensation for your injuries, damages and losses.
