FDA Placed a Nationwide Class 1 Risk Classification on its Chia Seed Recall

If you’re a fan of chia seeds, then it’s time to check your stock. 

In May, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) put out a voluntary recall notice for Great Value Organic Black Chia Seeds 32 oz. due to the potential presence of Salmonella. However, on June 28, the FDA gave it a Class 1 risk classification, which means it’s a “situation in which there is a reasonable probability that the use of, or exposure to, a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.” 

According to the original recall notice, the chia seed product is identifiable through the main label on the pouch, which also contains the lot number printed on the bottom of the back panel of the packaging. The produce was distributed to Walmart locations nationwide. 

The FDA is urging anyone who purchased the product to throw it away immediately and added that “Natural Sourcing International will provide replacement product upon proof of purchase.” Those who wish to seek a replacement can contact Natural Sourcing International by calling 1-818-405-9705 Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. EST or emailing the company at customerservice@organically-simple.com.

As the FDA additionally noted, as it does in all its Salmonella-related recalls, that it can cause “serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.” Healthy persons still also need to stay vigilant as it can cause a fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Additionally, it added that in “rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.” Most healthy persons usually recover within a few days or weeks after a Salmonella infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. 

Additionally, it’s critical to note that no adverse events have been reported with this product to date and that the recall notice was issued “out of an abundance of caution and because consumer safety is the company’s highest priority,” Still, you shouldn’t test your luck.