CDC - Salmonella Outbreak Associated with Pre-cut Coconut 2017

CDC issued a report on a 2017 Salmonella outbreak associated with coconut.  Tere were 19 cases from pre-cut coconut pieces.  From the investigation, it was determined that the Salmonella originated with the source product from Indonesia.

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6739a5.htm?s_cid=mm6739a5_e
Outbreak of Salmonella Chailey Infections Linked To Precut Coconut Pieces — United States and Canada, 2017
Weekly / October 5, 2018 / 67(39);1098–1100

Question of the Week - Coconut a Tree Nut Allergen?

Is coconut a tree allergen?    FDA classified coconut in the Big 8 Allergen groupings as a tree nut.  Technically, coconut is not a botanical nut, but is a one seeded drupe, or a one seeded fruit.  But since it can be argued that it is a nut of sorts, it can be added with the other tree nuts.  No harm, no foul.

Coconut allergies are pretty rare, but for the few of those who are allergic, it can be serious, including anaphylaxis.  There is much less likelihood of cross reactivity from the other tree nuts to coconut in terms of allergies, although there have been a few cases.

https://acaai.org/allergies/types/food-allergies/types-food-allergy/tree-nut-allergy
https://www.anaphylaxis.org.uk/knowledgebase/coconut/

NY Company Recalls Coconut After Notification by Distributor Regarding Potential Salmonella Contamination

Healthy Nut Factory of Bayside, NY is recalling 7 oz. Pouches of Organic Coconut Smiles because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  The recall was initiated after we were notified by the distributor that product with expiration date 6/1/2018 purchased on 8/21/2018 might contain Salmonella. The company states that they have ceased production and distribution of the product as FDA and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem.  This recall is linked to the Salmonella outbreak associated with dried coconut initially posted in March.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm603242.htm
Health Nut Factory Recalls Organic Coconut Smiles Because Of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
March 29, 2018