The U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) has been conducting an investigation into the source of a salmonella outbreak. The outbreak of salmonella typhimurium has infected nearly 500 people in over 43 states and Canada. In Rhode Island, 4 people have been infected by the outbreak. In Massachusetts, over 40 people have been infected with salmonella.

The outbreak of salmonella infections began in September 2008 and has continued until early January 2009. More cases may be reported in the near future. About 22% of people infected were hospitalized. The salmonella outbreak is thought to have contributed to the deaths of 6 people. During its investigation, the CDS discovered the source of the outbreak was peanut butter, specifically King Nut brand.

The Peanut Corporation of American (PCA), located in Georgia, produced the infected peanut butter. As a result of the outbreak, PCA has recalled all peanut butter and peanut butter paste produced since July 1, 2008. The peanut butter produced was not sold to grocery stores for individual purchases. Instead, the recalled peanut butter is sold to institutions like schools and nursing homes. The peanut butter paste is used as an ingredient in many products such as cookies, cereal, ice cream, candy and crackers.
Pre-packaged peanut butter crackers have also been recalled as a result of the salmonella outbreak. The Kellogg Company has recalled its Austin and Keebler brand of peanut butter crackers. Both types of crackers are made with peanut paste from PCA. Many other products, which contain peanut butter, have been recalled.

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has a complete list of the recalled products affected by salmonella on their website. However, the CDC could add new products based on future investigations.

The CDC has tips for consumers to avoid the salmonella outbreak:

1. Do not eat any of the recalled products. Check the FDA’s website for a complete list.

2. Throw out all recalled products in each a way, to prevent others from eating them.

3. Do not eat other products containing peanut butter until more information is available about which brands were affected.

4. If you want information about any specific products, call the consumer hotline phone number on the product to get more information.

5. If you have eaten anything containing peanut butter and you feel ill afterwards, contact your doctor immediately.

If you or a loved one recently ate any peanut products and were diagnosed with Salmonella poisoning, you may want to speak with an attorney. A lawyer familiar with new developments in the investigation may be able to help you make important personal and legal decisions and if needed file a lawsuit.