U.S. Food and Drug Administration
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Salmonella Typhimurium Outbreak
Updated: January 16, 2009

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Update on FDA's Investigation

January 12, 2009: FDA is collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and public health officials in many states to investigate an ongoing, multi-state outbreak of human infections due to Salmonella serotype Typhimurium. CDC and public health officials in multiple states comparing foods eaten by ill and well persons have suggested peanut butter as a likely source. However, the epidemiological studies have not implicated any specific brand.

FDA continues its investigation of a peanut butter manufacturer, based upon data from the epidemiological investigation and laboratory testing conducted by the Minnesota Department of Health and Department of Agriculture. Product testing indicated the presence of Salmonella Typhimurium bacteria of the same strains found in the ongoing outbreak in an (open) 5-pound container of peanut butter that was offered in an institutional setting.

FDA’s ongoing investigation includes an inspection at the distributor and the implicated manufacturer for the suspect sample collected by the state. The inspection at the manufacturer was coordinated with state and CDC officials and is two-pronged: to gather samples and to collect epidemiological information, including records on distribution of the product.  Samples are being analyzed in FDA laboratories. 

The 5-pound container, which tested positive, appears to be manufactured for sale in large containers to institutions such as nursing homes, cafeterias, etc. State officials in Minnesota are coordinating their investigation with CDC and FDA.

This distributor has taken voluntary action to withdraw its peanut butter products from the marketplace.

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