Walmart Stores in 18 States Sold This Potentially Contaminated Vegetable

Walmart operates thousands of locations all across the U.S., but shoppers who visited one of over 1,000 stores in 18 states and grabbed some fresh vegetables take note—one type has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

A sample of the Organiz Marketside Zucchini sold in a clear pack of two at Walmart taken by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tested positive for the type of bacteria that can cause illnesses in healthy people and severe illnesses in young children, frail or elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems, according to the recall notice posted on the FDA's website.

Walmart stores in Arizona, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin received shipments of the potentially contaminated vegetable. To see the full list of the specific locations, click here.

The set of two zucchinis was sold in a clear overwrap tray weighing about 6 ounces with a UPC code of 6-81131-22105-4.

Walmart recall zucchini — Courtesy of the FDA

"Consumers who have purchased Organic Marketside Zucchini are urged to destroy and dispose of recalled product," the notice says. "Consumers with questions may contact World Variety Produce, Inc. at 1-800-588-0151, Mon-Fri 7:00 AM–5:00 PM PST."

Sometimes those infected with Salmonella have no symptoms, however, they can include diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, dehydration, headache, chills, and blood in the stool anywhere from eight to 72 hours after consumption. "Most healthy people recover within a few days without specific treatment," according to the Mayo Clinic. It says that fruits and vegetables can become contaminated if they are hydrated or washed with contaminated water.

A way to ensure your family is safe from all kinds of bacteria when handling food, Follow These Two Steps to Sanitize Your Kitchen, Expert Says.