Public Health Alert: Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Moringa Powder
Public health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak linked to Rosabella brand moringa powder, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC, the Food and Drug Administration, and state health officials are investigating drug-resistant Salmonella infections associated with some batches of the product.
Investigation and Recall
The FDA, which continues to investigate the outbreak, has reported seven illnesses in seven states, three of which resulted in hospitalizations, that may be linked to the Rosabella capsules. At least one case of salmonella has been reported in Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee, and Washington. Ambrosia Brands, the product’s distributor, has voluntarily recalled potentially contaminated product batches of the powder capsules packaged in a white 60 bottle with a green cap and label.
What is Moringa Powder?
Moringa powder is derived from the tree of the same name, which is found in warm regions around the world and whose leaves and pods contain several essential nutrients. Moringa products are used to make drinks to treat a range of conditions, including ulcers, toothache, and high blood pressure. However, some of the health claims surrounding moringa do not have much evidence to support them, and much more research is needed before healthcare providers can say that moringa prevents or treats any type of disease.
Affected Batches and Symptoms
All recalled lots begin with SKU number 1356 and end with -1 or -2 after the lot code. The affected batches have an expiration date of March 2027 to November 2027. Government authorities urge consumers to immediately discard Rosabella moringa powder capsules, wash surfaces that may have come into contact with the products, and monitor for symptoms such as high fever, dehydration, diarrhea, and vomiting in people using the product. According to the FDA, salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in people with weakened immune systems.