Drug-Resistant Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Moringa Powder: A Growing Concern
A new multistate outbreak of extensively drug-resistant Salmonella infections is currently under investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak, as of February 13, 2026, has affected seven individuals across seven states, with three requiring hospitalization. The source has been identified as certain lots of Rosabella brand moringa powder capsules, distributed by Ambrosia Brands LLC.
The Rising Threat of Antimicrobial Resistance
What sets this outbreak apart is the concerning level of antibiotic resistance exhibited by the Salmonella strain. The CDC advisory notes the strain is resistant to most antibiotics typically used to treat Salmonella infections, and may even be resistant to multiple beta-lactam antibiotics. This highlights a growing global health crisis: the increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance, rendering common infections harder – and sometimes impossible – to treat.
Recalled Products and What to Do
The recalled Rosabella moringa powder capsules are packaged in white plastic bottles with a green label and are sold primarily online through the company’s website, Amazon, eBay, TikTok Shop, and Shein. A total of 52 lot codes are affected, all with expiration dates in 2027. Consumers are advised to check the bottom of the capsule bottles for the lot code, which appears above the expiration date. A complete list of affected lot codes is available on the FDA website.
If you have purchased affected capsules, the CDC recommends discarding them or returning them to the place of purchase. Thoroughly wash any items or surfaces that may have come into contact with the capsules.
Moringa: From Superfood to Source of Concern
Moringa oleifera, often touted as a “superfood” due to its nutritional content, has gained popularity in recent years as a dietary supplement. While generally considered safe, this outbreak underscores the potential risks associated with unregulated dietary supplement manufacturing and the importance of rigorous quality control. The CDC previously investigated a Salmonella outbreak linked to dietary supplements containing moringa leaf powder in January, though this outbreak is unrelated to the current one.
Beyond This Outbreak: Trends in Foodborne Illness Investigations
This outbreak is part of a broader trend of increasingly complex foodborne illness investigations. Several factors are contributing to this:
- Globalization of the Food Supply: Food products are sourced from increasingly diverse locations, making it harder to trace contamination back to its origin.
- Rise of E-commerce: Direct-to-consumer sales through online platforms bypass traditional retail channels, potentially weakening oversight.
- Emerging Pathogens and Antimicrobial Resistance: New and drug-resistant strains of bacteria are constantly evolving, posing new challenges to public health.
Staying Informed and Protecting Yourself
The CDC emphasizes that most people with Salmonella infection recover without antibiotics. However, given the drug-resistant nature of the strain in this outbreak, prompt medical attention is crucial for those experiencing severe symptoms. Healthcare professionals are advised to consider antimicrobial susceptibility testing when treating suspected cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the symptoms of Salmonella infection?
- Common symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically starting 6 hours to 6 days after infection.
- How can I prevent Salmonella infection?
- Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing, and thoroughly cook all food.
- Where can I find more information about this outbreak?
- Visit the FDA website or the CDC website.
Stay updated on food safety alerts and practice safe food handling to protect yourself and your family. Consider subscribing to email alerts from eFoodAlert for the latest recall information.
