Carrot Recall 2021: What You Need to Know About the Salmonella Scare

A comprehensive guide to the 2021 nationwide carrot recall—affected brands, health risks, and essential consumer actions.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 28, 2025

A comprehensive guide to the 2021 nationwide carrot recall—affected brands, health risks, and essential consumer actions.

Carrot Recall July 2021: Understanding the Nationwide Salmonella Alert

In July 2021, a significant carrot recall was issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in coordination with Grimmway Farms, one of America’s leading carrot producers, after internal tests alerted to potential salmonella contamination in several popular brands. This recall, although voluntary, affected a wide range of consumers, food manufacturers, and distributors, underscoring the critical importance of food safety and public health vigilance.

What Triggered the Carrot Recall?

The recall originated from a routine, internal company test performed by Grimmway Farms. According to Jeff Huckaby, president and CEO of Grimmway Farms, just one positive sample for salmonella is enough to initiate the company’s response protocols. “The health of our customers and the integrity of our products are our highest priorities,” Huckaby said, reaffirming the company’s commitment to food safety.

Salmonella is a dangerous bacterium that can cause widespread illness after ingestion, sometimes leading to severe health outcomes, especially in vulnerable populations. Recognizing this risk, Grimmway Farms acted promptly to recall all potentially affected products before any reports of illness had emerged.

Which Carrot Products Were Recalled?

This 2021 recall encompassed a wide range of carrot products distributed under multiple well-known brand names. The products were shipped nationwide, both directly to retailers and indirectly to distribution centers, food manufacturers, and food service distributors.

Affected Brands and Packages

Bunny Luv Organic Cut and Peeled Baby Carrots, 1 lb bag
Bunny Luv Organic Premium Petite Carrots, 3 lb bag
Cal-Organic Petite Carrots, 12 oz bag
Grimmway Farms Shredded Carrots, 10 oz bag
O Organics Peeled Baby-Cut Carrots, 1 lb bag
O Organics Baby Rainbow Carrots, 12 oz bag

Specific products also included select shredded and chopped (chunk) carrots, which were distributed to food manufacturers and service distributors. All carrots involved in the recall had best if used by dates between August 9 and August 20 and could be identified by a nine-character lot code starting with 195, 196, or 197 and ending with BF or SP printed on the packaging.

Distribution Scope

Products were sold under several major labels, including Bunny Luv, Cal-Organic, Grimmway Farms, and O Organics.
Carrots were shipped nationwide, with exact retailer lists undisclosed due to distribution logistics.
Portions of the affected product were also sent in bulk to other food manufacturers and food service outlets.

The Recall Process: Swift Action and Consumer Safety

The recall was carried out in close coordination with the FDA and emphasized transparency and caution. Grimmway Farms promptly notified distribution centers, food manufacturers, and food service distributors. Wherever possible, affected lots were intercepted and retrieved before reaching consumers.

Consumers were strongly urged to discard any affected products immediately to prevent accidental consumption. Those seeking refunds could contact Grimmway Farms’ dedicated hotline at 800-301-3101.

Why Quick Recalls Matter

Foodborne illness prevention: Recalls are essential for stopping the spread of bacteria before illnesses occur.
Protects at-risk groups: Quick action particularly safeguards groups vulnerable to more severe salmonella effects, such as children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.
Maintains trust: Transparency and accountability are crucial for public confidence in food safety and brand responsibility.

Understanding Salmonella: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment

Salmonella is a bacteria often transmitted through contaminated food. Infection can range from mild to severe, with most people recovering without medical intervention. However, understanding the risk is key to public safety, especially during a major recall.

Common Symptoms of Salmonella Infection

Diarrhea
Fever
Abdominal cramps
Nausea and vomiting
Headache

Symptoms can develop 6 hours to 6 days after consuming contaminated food and typically last four to seven days. Most cases resolve without treatment. However, severe illness can require hospitalization, especially if dehydration or high fever occurs.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Diarrhea lasting more than three days, especially if severe or bloody.
High fever (over 102°F/39°C).
Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, little or no urination).
Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting.

Children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at increased risk of complications.

Consumer Guidance: What to Do if You Have the Recalled Carrots

Consumers who purchased any of the recalled products were advised to take immediate action:

Check package lot codes and best-by dates to identify affected products.
Do not consume any product that matches the recall criteria.
Dispose of the product safely by throwing it in the trash to prevent others from consuming it accidentally.
For a refund or with questions, contact Grimmway Farms at 800-301-3101.

If in doubt, discard any carrots that you suspect could be involved in the recall, especially if the packaging information is unclear or the product matches any of the recall descriptions.

Food Recalls and Food Safety: Lessons from the 2021 Carrot Recall

This recall highlights the robust systems in place for maintaining food safety in the United States. Routine testing and rapid response protocols enable producers like Grimmway Farms to detect and act on potential contamination risks before widespread health problems occur.

How Food Recalls Work

Testing and detection: Samples from production batches are regularly tested for contaminants such as bacteria.
Initiating a recall: If contamination is detected, manufacturers work with the FDA to issue a recall notice immediately.
Notifying the supply chain: Distribution centers, retailers, and manufacturers are quickly informed so affected products can be removed from circulation.
Public notice: Consumers are notified through various channels, including FDA bulletins, news agencies, and official company statements.
Resolution and follow-up: Companies monitor for new information and assist consumers with recalls and refunds.

Why Routine Food Testing Matters

Acts as an early warning system for dangerous pathogens.
Protects public health and limits financial and reputational damage for food producers.
Shows the importance of regulatory oversight and industry self-regulation.

Other Recent Food Recalls: A Broader Trend

The 2021 carrot recall occurred alongside several other high-profile nationwide recalls, reflecting ongoing challenges with foodborne pathogens. At the time, recalls were also issued for muffins, kimchi, and poultry products from various companies due to salmonella or listeria risks.

This demonstrates that food safety risks are a persistent concern that requires vigilance from both producers and consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Carrot Recall

Q: What prompted the 2021 carrot recall?

A: A routine internal test by Grimmway Farms detected potential salmonella contamination in one batch, leading to the recall as a precautionary measure.

Q: Have there been any illnesses reported from these carrots?

A: No illnesses were linked to the recalled carrots at the time of the announcement.

Q: How can I tell if my carrots are affected?

A: Look for lot codes beginning with 195, 196, or 197, ending in BF or SP, and best-by dates through August 20, 2021.

Q: What should I do with recalled products?

A: Do not eat them; discard recalled products immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

Q: Who is most at risk of contracting salmonella?

A: Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems are most at risk of severe illness.

Q: What symptoms should I look for if I think I ate recalled carrots?

A: Watch for diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, and signs of dehydration. If symptoms are severe or persist, seek medical care.

Table: Summary of Recalled Carrot Products

Brand	Product	Size	Lot Code Starts With	Best By Date
Bunny Luv	Organic Cut and Peeled Baby Carrots	1 lb	195, 196, 197	Aug 9–20, 2021
Bunny Luv	Organic Premium Petite Carrots	3 lb	195, 196, 197	Aug 9–20, 2021
Cal-Organic	Petite Carrots	12 oz	195, 196, 197	Aug 9–20, 2021
Grimmway Farms	Shredded Carrots	10 oz	195, 196, 197	Aug 9–20, 2021
O Organics	Peeled Baby-Cut Carrots	1 lb	195, 196, 197	Aug 9–20, 2021
O Organics	Baby Rainbow Carrots	12 oz	195, 196, 197	Aug 9–20, 2021

How to Stay Up to Date on Food Recalls and Food Safety

Consumers play an important role in safeguarding their own and their families’ health by staying alert to recall notices and food safety updates. Here’s how you can keep informed:

Check the FDA’s recall alerts regularly for up-to-date information on food safety issues.
Inspect products in your home for lot codes and best-by dates after major recall announcements.
Follow manufacturer and retailer instructions on how to safely dispose of or return recalled items.
Consult your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of foodborne illness following a recall announcement.

Additional Resources and Support

For more information or specific inquiries about the carrot recall, consumers may contact:

Grimmway Farms Consumer Hotline: 800-301-3101
FDA’s Recalls and Safety Alerts: Access via the FDA’s official website for recall details and updates.
Food Safety Education: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website offers consumer guidance on salmonella, food safety, and preventing foodborne illnesses.

Maintaining vigilance, awareness, and healthy habits are the best tools for minimizing risks and ensuring the safety of what lands on your table—even when trusted brands must initiate a recall for the greater good.

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete