E.coli recall spreads to Starbucks, major grocery chains

Some 155,000 products that might contain tainted celery have been added to the recall. Yet when it comes to crisis communications, things have been strangely quiet.

Ragan Insider Premium Content
Ragan Insider Content

The posts are seven days old and don’t mention E.coli recalls or public health dangers.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is coordinating an expanded recall of tainted celery from California-based Taylor Farms Pacific. Yet, the FDA and the food manufacturer have not yet issued any statements or typical crisis press releases, videos or updates on social media.

The recall began last month when Chipotle shuttered 40 of its Mexican restaurants in the Pacific Northwest after some 20 patrons were sickened by the virus. A few people were hospitalized with vomiting, diarrhea and other digestive ailments. E.coli may cause serious kidney illnesses, and can be deadly.

Several Twitter accounts managed by Chipotle had consistent updates and engagement with people concerned about the situation.

A few days can change a story

On Tuesday, the FDA expanded its recall of celery products to 18 states. Affected chains now include:

The only information from the FDA on the recall is dated Nov. 26:

To read the full story, log in.
Become a Ragan Insider member to read this article and all other archived content.
Sign up today

Already a member? Log in here.
Learn more about Ragan Insider.