If you’re like me, green onions are a staple in your fridge. Whether topping a fresh salad or adding a pop of color to a soup, they bring flavor to just about any dish. But if you’ve recently purchased green onions from Trader Joe’s or other stores, you might want to take a closer look at your packaging. On October 18, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a recall on 1,271 cases of green onions distributed by Church Brothers Farms. This action followed a positive salmonella test result from a sample tested by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

This recall affects certain green onions sold in eleven states in the U.S., which include Alabama, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Virginia. If you’re concerned, keep reading to find out what’s involved in the recall, why it happened, and what steps you can take to stay safe.

What Green Onion Products Were Recalled?

The green onions affected by this recall were distributed under a few different brands, so double-check your package details if you think yours might be included. Here are the specifics to look for:

• Trader Joe’s Green Onions: The recalled Trader Joe’s green onions are packaged as “Iceless” in 24-count, 6 oz bags from Mexico. Look for the lot code CB272378 and a pack date labeled “092524.”
• Church Brothers Green Onions: Also packaged in Mexico, these “Iceless” green onions come in 4-count, 2 lb bags and are labeled with lot code CB272378 on the front of the bag.
• Imperial Fresh Green Onions: Packaged similarly to the Church Brothers brand, these green onions are also in 4-count, 2 lb clear bags with the same lot code (CB272378) printed on the front​.

These green onions were distributed to both retail and food service locations, including Trader Joe’s, and they could still be in fridges across these states.

What Is Salmonella and Why Is It a Concern?

Salmonella is a type of bacteria commonly associated with foodborne illnesses. It can be found in raw foods such as eggs, meat, poultry, and vegetables, and when consumed, it can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms. Typically, salmonella infection results in symptoms like fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. For healthy adults, these symptoms usually clear up in a week or so, but the experience can still be pretty rough.

The stakes are higher for certain individuals. For young children, the elderly, and anyone with a weakened immune system, a salmonella infection can be dangerous and even life-threatening. In severe cases, the bacteria can escape from the intestines and infect other parts of the body, leading to complications that may require hospitalization​.

Why Was There a Recall?

The recall came after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency detected salmonella in a sample from Church Brothers Farms’ green onions. Once the positive result was confirmed, Church Brothers Farms worked with the FDA to announce the recall and alert consumers across North America.

While there haven’t been any reported illnesses from these green onions as of October 18, the recall is a precaution to ensure the safety of anyone who might have already purchased the affected items. Foodborne illness outbreaks have serious consequences, and this type of proactive recall can prevent harm before it begins​.

What Should You Do If You Bought These Green Onions?

If you suspect you might have one of these recalled green onions in your kitchen, here’s what you should do:

1. Check the Packaging and Lot Code: Look on the packaging for the lot code CB272378. If you find a match, this is a recalled product.
2. Dispose of the Product: The FDA advises consumers not to eat the recalled green onions. Instead, safely discard them by placing them in a sealed bag to prevent accidental use. While it can feel wasteful, it’s the best way to avoid any health risks associated with salmonella.
3. Return or Contact the Store: Some retailers, including Trader Joe’s, often offer refunds on recalled items. You may be able to return your green onions for a full refund if you kept your receipt.

Staying Safe with Food Recalls

One of the best ways to stay informed on food safety issues like this recall is by signing up for updates from the FDA or food safety websites. These alerts can give you early warnings about any potential recalls and help you make safe choices. Additionally, knowing what symptoms to watch for when it comes to foodborne illnesses like salmonella can be invaluable. If you experience stomach pain, fever, or other symptoms after consuming a recalled product, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare provider.

While it’s easy to become desensitized to recalls when they seem to be announced so often, it’s essential to pay attention. Affected products often remain in circulation for days or even weeks, so it’s always good to double-check anything in your fridge or pantry when a recall is issued.

Recalls like this one highlight the importance of safe food handling practices, too. Proper storage and cooking temperatures, as well as regular cleaning of your kitchen surfaces, are small steps that can significantly reduce your risk of foodborne illnesses.

While it can be inconvenient to toss out something you were planning to use, the peace of mind is worth it. Take a moment to check any green onions in your kitchen for the affected lot code. If they’re part of this recall, dispose of them and reach out to your retailer if you need further assistance. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety!