Salmonella outbreak linked to onions grows with 47 states reporting cases, more foods recalled

A salmonella outbreak linked to recalled onions has spread to 47 states, with increased cases and hospitalizations.

The Food & Drug Administration said Tuesday that it was analyzing samples collected at Thomson International of Bakersfield, California, which has recalled all red, white, yellow and sweet yellow onions shipped to all 50 states and the District of Columbia from May 1 to Aug. 1.

In its update Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the number of reported cases of salmonella newport illnesses had grown to 869 cases, with 116 hospitalizations in 47 states (only Oklahoma, Louisiana and Vermont have not had cases). No deaths have been reported.

The initial recall involved bulk onions distributed to wholesalers, restaurants, and retail stores in all 50 states under brand names such as Thomson Premium, TLC Thomson International, Kroger, Food Lion and Onions 52.

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Subsequently recalled because they might contain recalled onions were several ready-to-eat meat and poultry products and salads sold at some Walmart, Kroger and H-E-B stores in 10 states.

Now added to the list of recalled products are cheese dips sold under the Murray’s, Jarlsberg and Deli brands and sold at Kroger, Fred Meyer, Fry's and Smith's stores, which collectively have stores in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia.

These products, sold between May 15 and Aug. 6, may have used red onions from Thomson as an ingredient. Consumers with questions about those products and stores can call Kroger Customer Connect at 800-576-4377.

Salmonella leads to about 420 deaths annually in the U.S., according to the CDC. Those with salmonella illness often develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps from six hours to six days after exposure, the CDC says. More severe cases may include high fever, aches, headaches, lethargy, rashes, as well as blood in the urine or stool.

Consumers should not eat any of the recalled onions – or any onions that might be from Thomson. All surfaces that come into contact with the onions should be disinfected. Consumers with questions may contact the company by calling Kim Earnshaw at 661-845-1111.

Follow Mike Snider on Twitter: @MikeSnider.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Food recall: Cases grow in salmonella outbreak linked to onions