Probiotic formulas have been recalled over potential Salmonella risk, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) just announced. Eco Health, Inc. of Chatsworth, California is recalling its florAlign Prebiotic Formula Powder in 90 gram (60 units), 180 gram (40 units), and 270 gram (174 units) sizes. All are distributed in powder form.
The Prebiotic Formula was marketed under the name florAlign Prebiotic Formula. This recall does not affect Eco Health, Inc. Probiotic Formula, which is a capsule marketed under the FlorAlign label.
The recalled The florAlign Prebiotic Formula was distributed within the United States by direct-to-consumer marketing (mail order, Internet, and direct delivery) with the UPCs FA02-90GM (90 gram), FA02-180GM (180 gram), and FA02-270GM (270 gram).
The recalled product is a berry-flavored powder that is packaged in a white, plastic, screw-off container that contains a scooper. The recalled florAlign Prebiotic Formula Powder is distributed by Eco-Health, Inc. and contains the following address on its label: “25876 The Old Road #158, Newhall, CA 91321.” The dates of distribution are between June 2011 and August 2012, and there are specific instructions on the label to report any adverse effects to this address.
The potential contamination was first brought to the attention of Eco-Health, Inc. via the FDA when the contract manufacturer notified the agency of a similar problem with the Ingredion label. The product was manufactured by Northridge Labs, which is owned by Irwin Naturals. The company has ceased the production and distribution of the product as the company continues its investigation. To date, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recalled product.
The firm’s Customer Service department can be reached at 1.661.208.3446 between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Pacific Standard Time (PST), Monday through Friday; customers are urged to return the recalled florAlign Prebiotic Formula for a full refund.
It can take between six and 72 hours from consumption of a contaminated product for the symptoms of Salmonella poisoning—salmonellosis—to appear. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. Additional symptoms include chills, headache, nausea, and vomiting that can last up to seven days. The illness usually lasts four to seven days; however, in some, the organism can invade the bloodstream, becoming so severe that hospitalization is required. Sometimes, infection with the Salmonella pathogen can result in, and produce more severe or chronic illnesses and can leave sufferers with serious life-long health issues.
One of the most common bacterial food borne illnesses, salmonellosis can be especially life threatening to those with weakened immune systems, such as infants; the elderly; and persons with compromised immune systems, such as people with HIV infection or who are undergoing chemotherapy.
