Church Brothers, LLC has issued a voluntary recall of over 1,271 cases of green onions due to the potential risk of salmonella contamination. This recall, announced on October 18, 2024, by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), affects products distributed in 11 U.S. states as well as Canada. Green onions sold under the brands Church Brothers, Imperial Fresh, and Trader Joe’s have all been implicated in this recall. Although no illnesses have been reported, customers are advised to dispose of affected products or seek refunds.
What Triggered the Recall?

In Canada, the recall was initiated after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) discovered salmonella in a sample of green onions. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause foodborne illness, leading to symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in healthy individuals. However, in more vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems, salmonella can cause severe illness or even death.
The contamination was detected in green onions distributed in several states in the U.S., including Alabama, California, and New York, as well as in Canada. The lot code associated with the affected products is CB272378, and customers are urged to check their packaging for this number.
Brands and Products Affected

According to the FDA, the recall involves three major brands: Church Brothers, Imperial Fresh, and Trader Joe’s. Each of these brands packaged green onions under the following lot codes:
- Church Brothers: Iceless Green Onions, lot code CB272378
- Imperial Fresh: Iceless Green Onions, lot code CB272378
- Trader Joe’s: Iceless Green Onions, lot code CB272378, pack date 092524
Consumers who may have purchased green onions from these brands are advised to check their packaging for the specific lot code. If the product matches the recalled items, they should dispose of the green onions immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
Salmonella Risks and Symptoms

Salmonella infections, also known as salmonellosis, can range from mild to severe. Symptoms typically manifest between six to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and may last four to seven days. Common symptoms include:
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
For most healthy individuals, the illness resolves on its own, but those in high-risk groups could face more serious complications. In some cases, salmonella infection may require hospitalization or lead to long-term health effects.
What Consumers Should Do

If you believe you have purchased the affected green onions, it is essential to take precautionary measures. The FDA advises consumers to discard the product to avoid any risk of cross-contamination. It’s also recommended to sanitize the area where the onions were stored, as salmonella can linger on surfaces. If you no longer have the packaging but suspect the onions may be affected, it’s safest to discard them.
Alternative garnishes like chives or scallions can be used in place of green onions for upcoming meals.
While no illnesses have been reported as a result of this contamination, the voluntary recall underscores the importance of food safety and rapid response by retailers and producers. Consumers are encouraged to check their products carefully and follow the guidelines provided by the FDA and Church Brothers Farms to ensure their health and safety.
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