FDA investigators confirm E. coli at Nestle

CDC officials have confirmed 69 people from 29 states have been infected with Escherichia coli O157:H7, nine with hemolytic uremic syndrome. Meanwhile, FDA officials are testing to see if the illnesses are connected with an outbreak associated with Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough.

FDA officials said they found a contaminated sample at Nestlé’s facility in Danville, Va. late last week.

Last week, the FDA and the CDC warned consumers not to eat any varieties of prepackaged Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough due to the risk of contamination with E. coli O157:H7. The warning was based on an epidemiological study conducted by the CDC and several state and local health departments.

Further laboratory testing is needed to conclusively link the E. coli strain found in the product to the same strain that is causing the outbreak, FDA officials said in a press release.

Nestlé USA has fully cooperated with the FDA and CDC investigation and has recalled all of its prepackaged Nestlé Toll House refrigerated cookie dough products.

Consumers who have additional questions about these products should contact Nestlé USA consumer services at 1-800-559-5025.

For a complete listing of Nestlé USA recalled products, see this press release.