A widely recognized chia seed provider for Whole Foods markets has issued a recall on certain products due to potential Salmonella contamination.

Navitas Organics, the company at the helm of this recall, is taking a precautionary measure by voluntarily recalling specific batches of its 8-ounce Organic Chia Seeds. Interestingly, the company has clarified through an FDA announcement that no signs of the bacteria have been detected in these products.

The catalyst for this recall was a similar action taken by Navitas Organics’ chia seed supplier, which prompted the company to act out of an abundance of caution.

Navitas Organics assures consumers that this recall is a preventive measure in response to the concerns raised by their supplier, rather than an indication of contamination in their own products.

There have been no reports of illnesses linked to these chia seeds, which are particularly favored by fitness enthusiasts and wellness experts for their high fiber and omega-3 content. The FDA notes that the potentially affected products were distributed across the nation, available at retail locations such as Whole Foods Market and through online platforms including Amazon.

In addressing the recall, Ira Haber, CEO of Navitas Organics, stated, “Navitas has been supplying Organic Chia Seeds to our customers for over two decades. Ensuring the safety and healthiness of our offerings is the cornerstone of our business, which is why we are taking this step today.”

Salmonella causes salmonellosis, an infection that can pose a severe, even life-threatening risk to vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems.

Even in healthy people, salmonellosis typically causes fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and lead to deadly sepsis.

A major organic brand sold at Whole Foods has recalled specific lots of its chia seeds over potential salmonella contamination (file photo)

The company said in the FDA notice: ‘If you have any of the 8oz Organic Chia Seeds with the lot numbers listed above, do not consume them. We ask that you open the bag, discard the chia seeds, and dispose of the bag in a manner that makes it unusable.’

Packed with fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids, chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse.

Just a small serving can help stabilize blood sugar, promote digestive health and promote a feeling for fullness for longer.

Their antioxidant content also supports heart health and helps combat inflammation, making them a simple yet potent addition to smoothies, yogurt and baked goods.

The recall specifically affects eight-ounce stand-up pouches of Navitas Organics Organic Chia Seeds (UPC 858847000284). 

Consumers should check the back of the bag for a nine-digit Lot Code starting with ‘W,’ printed above the nutritional label.

The recalled codes are W31025283, W31025286, and W31025287 with a ‘Best If Used By’ date of End APR 2027, and W31025311 through W31025317 with a ‘Best If Used By’ date of End MAY 2027.

A company spokesperson said: ‘The company is working closely with FDA on this issue. We apologize to our customers for any inconvenience caused by this recall.’

A Salmonella infection is a common but sometimes serious foodborne illness, causing symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. 

The recall is for 8-ounce pouches of Navitas Organics Organic Chia Seeds (UPC 858847000284). Products with the codes W31025283, W31025286, or W31025287 (best by End APR 2027) and W31025311 through W31025317 (best by End MAY 2027) should not be consumed

Salmonella bacteria attack the lining of the intestines, damaging the cells that help the body absorb water. This disruption leads to severe stomach cramps and the unabsorbed water is expelled as diarrhea (stock)

While most people recover without treatment in less than a week, the infection can be severe enough to require hospitalization, and in rare cases, can be fatal.

Salmonella bacteria invade and destroy the cells that line the intestines. This makes it hard for the body to absorb water, which can result in stomach cramps. The water leaves the body through diarrhea.

Salmonella infection can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening medical emergency. While uncommon, the bacteria can escape the intestines and enter the bloodstream, causing a systemic infection known as bacteremia.

If the body’s response to this infection damages its own tissues and organs, it becomes sepsis. This risk is highest for infants, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or transplant recipients.

In the United States, Salmonella is a leading cause of food poisoning, sickening more than one million people every year. Of those, an estimated 26,500 require hospital care, and the bacteria are responsible for approximately 420 deaths annually.