Asafoetida powder is being recalled by the Shakti Group after concerns arose that it may be contaminated with Salmonella. The New Brunswick, New Jersey company produces the powder by drying the gum from a rhizome used in Indian cuisine. The powder was packaged in either 50 or 100 gram white plastic bottles. The affected products can be identified with the Lot Number 2323 and the UPC code 840222000149. The powder was distributed to retail stores in Ohio, New Jersey, Virginia, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania. So far no illnesses have been reported, but health officials have recommended that consumers dispose of any recalled products they may have purchased.
Salmonella poisoning is one of the most common forms of foodborne illness in America, causing around 1.2 million illnesses per year. It occurs when someone consumes contaminated food or water. Symptoms of the illness will appear between 12 and 72 hours after infection, and will include abdominal cramping, fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In many cases, someone infected with Salmonella will recover within a week and without medical attention. However, in those with certain risk factors, such as the elderly, children, and those with suppressed immune systems, the illness may linger or worsen, making medical attention necessary. If you or a loved one begins to show the symptoms of Salmonella poisoning, contact a medical professional.
