Federal health officials in the United States have announced a significant salmonella outbreak connected to a widely sold dietary supplement powder, which has left dozens of people ill across the country.
Nationwide Recall of Contaminated Supplements
The outbreak is linked to Live it Up-brand Super Greens powder, manufactured by Superfoods Inc. The company has issued a recall for its original and wild berry flavours with expiration dates ranging from August 2026 to January 2028. Authorities have instructed the public not to consume, sell, or serve these products and to dispose of them or return them to the point of purchase.
The products were distributed nationwide, and cases have been identified in 21 states. The affected states are:
- Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky
- Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska
- New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee
- Utah, Vermont, Washington, and Wisconsin.
Scale and Severity of the Illnesses
According to a joint statement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 45 people have reported falling ill. The cases occurred over a period from 22 August to 30 December 2025. Of those affected, a minimum of 12 individuals required hospitalisation. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported in connection with this outbreak.
The FDA has cautioned that its investigation is ongoing and that additional products could be contaminated. This warning suggests the recall scope may expand as the probe continues.
Understanding Salmonella Infection Risks
Salmonella poisoning symptoms typically begin within hours or a few days after ingesting contaminated food. Common signs include diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps. While most healthy adults recover without specific treatment within a week, the infection can pose a serious threat to vulnerable groups.
Young children under the age of 5, adults over 65, and individuals with compromised immune systems are at a heightened risk of developing severe illness that may necessitate medical intervention.
This incident highlights the potential health risks associated with food supplements and the critical importance of robust regulatory oversight and swift action when contamination is suspected.
