A widely sold supplement available at Whole Foods Market and Amazon has been recalled over concerns that it could be contaminated with potentially dangerous bacteria.
Ashwagandha capsules were removed from sale because of a possible salmonella risk. The bacteria can cause diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps, and may lead to serious complications, including life-threatening dehydration.
Albuquerque-based Vitality Works Inc. recalled one lot of 365 Whole Foods Market Standardized + Full Spectrum Blend Ashwagandha Capsules on Friday.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said routine testing found a potential contamination concern in one bottle, although salmonella itself was not confirmed.
The supplements were sold at Whole Foods Market stores nationwide and through Amazon from November 24, 2025, through October 20, 2026.
No illnesses linked to the recalled product have been reported.
Health officials advised consumers to stop using the supplement immediately and throw it away instead of returning it to a store.
Customers who bought the product can obtain a refund at any Whole Foods Market location.
Ashwagandha capsules were recalled over concerns about possible salmonella contamination (stock image)
The product is sold in white plastic bottles marked ‘365 Whole Foods Market Standardized + Full Spectrum Blend Ashwagandha, 120 count,’ and carries UPC number 9948252099.
Recalled bottles can be identified by lot number 2025-26227 and an expiration date of October 13, 2028. Both details appear on the bottom of the packaging.
Ashwagandha belongs to a group of herbal supplements known as adaptogens, which are marketed as products that may help reduce stress.
Experts believe adaptogens may reduce levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, potentially supporting relaxation and better sleep.
Although salmonella is often associated with raw poultry and eggs, the bacteria can contaminate many other products, including herbal supplements.
Contamination may occur at several points during manufacturing and distribution through tainted ingredients, inadequate sanitation, improper handling or cross-contamination during packaging.
Salmonella symptoms typically begin between six hours and six days after the bacteria is consumed.
Products contaminated with salmonella may look, smell and taste normal while still presenting a serious health risk.
The recalled supplement is sold in white plastic bottles labeled ‘365 Whole Foods Market Standardized + Full Spectrum Blend Ashwagandha, 120 count’
Officials told consumers to discard the supplement rather than return it to the store
Salmonella infection can cause diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps and dehydration. These symptoms may require medical care, especially in children younger than five, adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems.
In some cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis, a life-threatening condition in which the immune system responds aggressively to an infection and damages healthy organs and tissues.
Many salmonella infections improve with supportive care, including plenty of fluids and rest. Healthy adults generally recover within about a week.
Doctors may prescribe antibiotics for more serious infections.
Salmonella is among the leading causes of foodborne illness in the United States, causing about 1.35 million infections, 23,000 hospitalizations and 450 deaths each year.
