Pre-MIxed Salad Warning
Got this in a South Beach newsletter today and thought I'd share. Can't be too careful.
FDA Alert: Salad Mixes
On May 21st, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a consumer alert regarding parasitic infections caused by pre-mixed salads containing basil and mesclun. The warning comes in response to two isolated outbreaks of food poisoning at restaurants in Illinois and Texas.
The source and scope of the infection is still unknown. However, consumers are advised to report symptoms of salad-related food poisoning to their physicians or local health departments. The illness is caused by the Cyclospora parasite, which infects the small intestine causing diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and substantial weight loss. Symptoms typically develop within one week of consuming contaminated food and the infection can be treated with antibiotics.
If you suspect you may have been exposed to Cyclospora-contaminated food, consult with your physician immediately.