How to Avoid Salmonella in Peanut Butter

Salmonella in peanut butter is making people sick. On January 18, Federal health authorities urged people to steer clear of peanut butter until the contamination is studied further. They will attack the salmonella outbreak aggressively as nearly 500 people in 43 states have turned up sick. Six people have died. Take these steps to keep your family safe from salmonella in peanut butter.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. 

   Go through your pantry.
   
   The salmonella outbreak seems to be stemming from peanut paste, rather than jarred peanut butter. Peanut paste is used in making a lot of snacks like cookies, cakes, icecream, and other frequent supermarket items. If you have snacks containing peanut butter, throw them away. It's always better to be safe than sorry!

2. 

   Keep an eye on the news for product recalls.
   
   So far, Kellogg, Austin, Keebler, and Famous Amos have issued recalls on particular products that could potentially contain the salmonella laden peanut butter.

3. 

   Beware of supermarket bakeries.
   
   Some bakeries have voluntarily pulled products from the shelves containing peanut butter or peanut paste. Use your own judgement when you buy bakery products. It couldn't hurt to choose chocolate over peanut butter until the salmonella outbreak is under control.

4. Don't worry too much.
   
   The bacteria behind the salmonella outbreak is called "typhimurium". This is a common strain of salmonella. It only poses extreme danger to those with weak immune systems and elderly people. So if you don't fit those demographics, don't worry too much. Just exercise caution around peanut butter products for awhile, and you should remain salmonella free.

Tips & Warnings

• Always take product recalls seriously. Don't risk your health over a peanut butter cookie!

Resources

• Fox News Article
• Safe Food: Bacteria, Biotechnology, and Bioterrorism