E. Coli Outbreak (Spinach)

In 2006, a CDC investigation with the State of California and the Food and Drug Administration linked a multistate outbreak of Escherichia coli (E. coli) 0157:H7 to fresh bagged spinach from California.

Effects were widespread: people became ill, the spinach was recalled, and farmers were unable to sell some of their crops.

This outbreak endangered consumers, cost farmers money, and concerned farm conglomerates, oversight authorities and regulators.