Federal health officials in the United States have confirmed a significant salmonella outbreak linked to a popular dietary supplement, leaving dozens of people ill and prompting a nationwide recall.
Widespread Illness and Product Recall
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that at least 45 individuals across nearly two dozen states have been sickened. The source has been traced to Live it Up-brand Super Greens powder, manufactured by Superfoods Inc.
The company has now issued a recall for its original and wild berry flavours. The affected products have expiration dates running from August 2026 through to January 2028. Authorities are urging consumers not to eat, sell, or serve these powders and to either throw them away or return them to the store where they were bought.
Hospitalisations and National Distribution
Reported illnesses connected to the diet supplement occurred between 22 August and 30 December 2025. Of those affected, at least 12 people required hospital treatment. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported in connection with this outbreak.
The contaminated products were distributed across the entire country. Cases have been identified in 21 states so far:
- Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky
- Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska
- New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee
- Utah, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.
The FDA has warned that its investigation is ongoing and that additional products could be contaminated.
Second Recall for Chocolate Bars
In a separate but related incident, a popular chocolate bar brand has also initiated a voluntary recall due to potential salmonella contamination. Spring & Mulberry, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, announced the recall of its Mint Leaf Date Sweetened Chocolate Bar.
This action came after routine third-party laboratory testing detected a trace of the bacteria. The FDA published a report detailing the discovery on Monday. The affected bars have been sold online and in shops since 15 September 2025.
Consumers can identify the recalled chocolate by its distinctive teal box and the lot code 025255, printed on the back of the packaging and the inner wrap. While no illnesses have been linked to the chocolate, customers are urged to dispose of it immediately and contact the company at recalls@springandmulberry.com for a refund.
Understanding Salmonella Risks
Symptoms of salmonella poisoning typically begin within hours or days of consuming a contaminated product. They commonly include diarrhoea, fever, and stomach cramps. Most healthy adults recover without specific treatment within a week.
However, infections can become severe and even life-threatening for young children under the age of 5, adults over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Health experts advise anyone experiencing severe symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
