Kroger recalls 4 spices for possible contamination

The Kroger Co. has recalled Kroger Ground Cinnamon, Kroger Garlic Powder, Kroger Coarse Ground Black Pepper and Kroger Bac'n Buds sold in its retail stores due to possible contamination from salmonella.

A sample of Kroger Garlic Powder from a store in North Augusta, South Carolina was tested by the FDA and found to be contaminated with salmonella. To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with these products. Out of an abundance of caution, the company late last week recalled all four seasonings produced on the same equipment in the same facility.

Cincinnati/Dayton Kroger stores (including those in Northern Kentucky) are part of the recall.

The recall also covers Kroger stores in central, northwest and southeast Ohio; eastern and western Kentucky; Indiana (except Southeast Indiana and Evansville); Georgia; South Carolina; Auburn and Huntsville, Alabama; northwestern Virginia panhandle; Michigan; Illinois; eastern Missouri; Knoxville, Memphis and Nashville in Tennessee; Arkansas; Mississippi; eastern North Carolina; Virginia; eastern West Virginia; Eastern Kentucky; Texas and Louisiana. Other affected groups in the Kroger system include Jay C, Dillons, King Soopers, Fry's, Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Food 4 Less and Smiths.

Customers who have purchased the recalled products should not consume them and should return them to a store for a full refund or replacement. Customers who have questions may contact Kroger at 800-576-4377.

Salmonella causes one million illnesses annually in the United States, with 19,000 hospitalizations and 380 deaths, according to the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most persons infected with the bacteria (there are more than 30 types) develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection.

The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most persons recover without treatment. However, in some persons, the diarrhea may be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized.