FDA investigates Kratom Salmonella Outbreak

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the CDC, along with several local and state agencies started an investigation into kratom products spreading salmonella.

The FDA confirmed kratom products connection to salmonella and on March 26th issued a recall to several distribution companies of kratom related drugs.

Since then, the FDA has issued recalls to more companies and many other companies have even expanded their recall of kratom based products. To see the breakdown of what companies and the date of the recall, click here.

“The FDA is concerned about the high frequency of several Salmonella serotypes found in the products it has tested during this investigation. As of April 19, 2018, out of 66 FDA samples analyzed from distributors and retail locations of interest, 33 have been found positive for one or more strains of salmonella. Additional samples are still being analyzed. The FDA reminds consumers that raw products contaminated with salmonella can make people sick if they consume them and can also cross-contaminate surrounding surfaces and possibly expose others to Salmonella.”
—FDA.gov

If you or someone you know is using kratom, be aware they could potentially expose themselves and those around them to salmonella. According to food safety news, 132 people have been infected by the salmonella outbreak, with victims of the outbreak spread across 38 states. The problem could even get worse as more take the opioid-like substance. Some think this is a play by the FDA who had tried to make kratom a schedule 1 substance but put that on the back burner when met with public opposition. The dangers of salmonella poisoning are still currently a risk, in addition to the regular risks of kratom use such as addition and problems that come along with it.

If your loved one uses kratom and begins to exhibit symptoms of kratom use, contact your local health service or poison control.