Nationwide Lettuce Recall: E. Coli Found in 12 States

Nationwide Lettuce Recall Expands as E. Coli Cases Surge Across 12 States

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an urgent recall affecting romaine and mixed lettuce products sold in supermarkets across 12 states following the discovery of E. coli O157:H7 contamination. The recall, which began in late March and expanded significantly in early April 2026, now covers products from three major distributors linked to a single growing region in central California.

Which Products Are Affected?

The recall covers pre-packaged romaine hearts, bagged salad mixes, and chopped lettuce kits bearing sell-by dates between March 20 and April 10, 2026. Brands affected include FreshLeaf Farms, Valley Green Organics, and Pacific Harvest. Products were distributed to retailers including Kroger, Safeway, Publix, Walmart, and several regional grocery chains across California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Illinois, and Michigan.

How Many People Have Been Affected?

As of April 4, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed 87 cases of E. coli O157:H7 linked to the contaminated lettuce. Fourteen people have been hospitalized, including three children under the age of five. No deaths have been reported, but health officials warn that symptoms can take up to 10 days to appear after exposure, meaning case counts are likely to rise in the coming week.

What Is E. Coli O157:H7?

E. coli O157:H7 is a particularly dangerous strain of bacteria that produces Shiga toxins, which can cause severe abdominal cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. In serious cases, it can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition that affects the kidneys. Young children, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems are at the highest risk for severe complications.

What Should Consumers Do?

The FDA advises consumers to immediately check their refrigerators for any of the recalled products. If you have purchased romaine lettuce or pre-packaged salad mixes from any of the affected brands with the specified sell-by dates, do not eat them. Place them in a sealed bag and dispose of them in a covered trash container. Thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces, containers, or utensils that may have come into contact with the products.

If you have already consumed the recalled lettuce and experience symptoms such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea that is bloody, or a fever higher than 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Be sure to mention the lettuce recall when seeking medical attention.

Investigation and Source Tracking

FDA investigators have traced the contamination to irrigation water used at farms in the Salinas Valley region. Water samples tested positive for the same strain of E. coli found in patient samples. The agency is working with state agricultural departments to determine the full scope of the contamination and whether additional growing operations may be affected.

Retailer Response

Major retailers have already pulled the affected products from their shelves. Kroger, Walmart, and Publix have issued statements confirming that all recalled items have been removed from stores and that customers who purchased the products can return them for a full refund, with or without a receipt. Several retailers have also implemented additional screening measures for incoming leafy green shipments.

How to Stay Safe Going Forward

While this recall is being resolved, consumers can reduce their risk by opting for lettuce and greens sourced from regions not affected by the recall. Washing lettuce under running water can remove some surface bacteria, though it may not eliminate E. coli that has been internalized by the plant. Cooking greens to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit will kill the bacteria, though this is not practical for salad consumption. The safest course is to avoid recalled products entirely and monitor FDA updates for any expansion of the recall.

For the latest information on this recall, visit the FDA recall page or call the FDA consumer hotline. Consumers can also sign up for recall alerts through the FDA website to receive notifications about future food safety issues.