Freshway Foods, based in Ohio, has instituted a romaine lettuce recall 2010. In all, 19 cases of E Coli have been confirmed in connection to the romaine lettuce recall. Most cases of E Coli are not severe, though if you have eaten the recalled lettuce you may need quick cash to go see a doctor.
Pre-shredded romaine involved within the romaine lettuce recall 2010
The romaine lettuce recall 2010 announced yesterday evening consists of only shredded romaine lettuce. Any Freshway Foods shredded romaine with a “use by” date after May 12 should be thrown out. This romaine lettuce recall 2010 also affects grab-and-go salads from Marsh, Ingles Markets, Giant Eagle, or Kroger stores. The romaine lettuce recall does not contain any brands, suppliers, or fresh greens. The implicated lettuce was grown in Arizona and was processed and shipped to wholesalers around the country.
Calls for stronger food safety after romaine lettuce recall 2010
The romaine lettuce recall 2010 has once again raised calls for stronger food-safety regulation. When the House passed a bill to give the FDA more powers over food regulation, the Senate has yet to take action. E Coli infections are usually found in undercooked meat, but because lettuce and other greens are not typically cooked, there is no way for the infection to be killed. Washing greens and properly storing them can minimize the risk of E Coli.
Why stronger regulations may hurt, besides lettuce recall
Food safety questions are raised by both the romaine lettuce recall and spinach recalls before it. Though many often call for “stronger regulation” to “protect food safety” after lettuce recalls, there is an argument against this stronger regulation. The romaine lettuce recall 2010 originated with a grower that grows and ships lettuce around the country. Stronger regulation on food tends to favor mega-food companies who can afford the new inspections, equipment or processes required. Small growers, who aren’t generally at fault for issues like the lettuce recall, are generally pushed out of business. Stronger across-the-board regulation, unless written carefully, tends to make the problem worse by pushing out small growers.
Romaine lettuce recall 2010 – what to do
If you think that you’ve gotten sick from the romaine lettuce recall 2010, contact your local health department. You need to not eat any of the products in the recall. Make certain to wash all greens – even “pre-washed” greens. The good news is the lettuce recall affects a relatively small percentage of the lettuce available within the United States – and no other greens or growers are shown to be unsafe in this lettuce recall. Mixed greens, mescalun mix, or even rocket lettuce are great substitutes if you want to avoid romaine lettuce recall 2010 greens.
Resources
FDA.gov
http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm211145.htm”>FDA.gov
