Jif Peanut Butter Recalled for Potential Salmonella Contamination

By edhat staff

Multiple Jif peanut butter products are being recalled due to an outbreak of salmonella linked to a Kentucky manufacturing facility.

Parent company J.M. Smucker Co. issued a voluntary recall on Friday while the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local partners are investigating the outbreak that so far spans 12 states.

The CDC reports that 14 people have fallen ill with two of those cases resulting in hospitalization.

“Five out of five people reported consuming peanut butter and four of the five people specifically reported consuming different varieties of Jif brand peanut butter prior to becoming ill,” the FDA said.

For many people infected by salmonella, symptoms appear 12 to 72 hours after contact and often include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, according to the FDA. Most people who are infected recover within four to seven days and do not need any treatment, although more serious cases can occur.

The J. M. Smucker Co. said the peanut butter it is recalling was distributed in retail stores and other outlets throughout the country. It includes creamy, crunchy and natural varieties, along with many others.

The recalled products have lot code numbers between 1274425 – 2140425 and include the numbers 425 for the 5th-7th digits. “425” in that position indicates that it was processed in the Lexington facility.

The lot number printed below the “Best if Used by” date on the label will show if your item is affected. Products with lot codes 1274425 – 2140425, with the digits 425 in the 5th-7th position, are being recalled.

 

A list of recalled products and their numbers can be seen on the FDA’s website. If you are in possession of a recalled jar, it’s advised that you immediately throw it away.

Peanut butter has a two-year shelf life and the FDA urges consumers to check any Jif peanut butter already in their homes.