Salmonella poisoning is something you might expect to get if you eat raw chicken. Sometimes though, it can surface in surprising places.
Relatively recent outbreaks of the bacteria which causes diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramping and vomiting have come from a variety of sources.
Here are three you should know about:
1) Coconut Tree Frozen Shredded Coconut
A multi-state outbreak of salmonella tool place in January of this year, and it all came from shredded coconut. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),
Coconut Tree Brand Frozen Shredded Coconut, distributed by Evershing International Trading Company, is thought to be the source of the outbreak.
Related: How Cucumbers Are Causing a Salmonella Outbreak in North America
Wash and sanitize countertops, drawers and shelves in freezers where the product could have been stored and as they say, when in doubt, don’t eat, sell, or serve it. Throw it out.
2) Raw Sprouts
Another multi-state salmonella outbreak was linked to contaminated raw sprouts. Primarily, the affect areas included Jimmy John’s restaurants in Illinois and Wisconsin. No hospitalizations or deaths were reported, but 8 people are known to have fallen sick. An investigation is ongoing.
3) Pet Turtles
They’re cute, but be on the lookout: pet turtles can cause you harm. Being in contact with your turtle or its environment, such as the tank water, can cause salmonella poisoning and it can be particular hard on young children. These guys are best left outside where they belong, so everyone stays happy and safe.
