According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, a total of 35 persons infected with the outbreak strain of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O121 (STEC O121) were reported from 19 states:

• 82% of ill persons were 21 years of age or younger;

• 31% of ill persons were hospitalized; and,

• two ill persons developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

Collaborative investigative efforts of local, state, and federal public health and regulatory agencies indicated Farm Rich brand frozen food products were the source of this outbreak.

On April 4, 2013, Rich Products Corporation expanded its recall to include all Farm Rich, Market Day, and Schwan’s brand frozen food products produced at its Waycross, Georgia plant between July 1, 2011 and March 29, 2013 due to possible contamination with E. coli O121.

The recalled products had “Best By” dates ranging from January 1, 2013 to September 29, 2014.

This outbreak appears to be over. However, the recalled products have a long shelf-life, and they may still be in peoples’ freezers.