Nationwide Recall of Chia Seeds Sparks Health Concerns Over Salmonella Risk

Catherine Bell, Features Editor
4 Min Read
⏱️ 3 min read

In a significant move to protect consumers, Navitas Organics has announced a voluntary recall of specific lots of its Organic Chia Seeds due to potential salmonella contamination. This precautionary action, shared in a report by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), comes after a supplier’s alert regarding the safety of the product. Although no illnesses have been reported, the company urges customers to act swiftly to ensure their health and safety.

Details of the Recall

The affected chia seeds, sold in eight-ounce bags, were available at popular retailers such as Whole Foods and Amazon. Customers can identify the recalled products by looking for the Universal Product Code (UPC) 858847000284 and nine-digit lot codes beginning with “W,” found on the back of the packaging. The recall specifically includes chia seeds with a “Best if Used By” date of April or May 2027.

Navitas Organics has been a trusted name in healthy food for over two decades, with CEO Ira Haber emphasising the company’s commitment to providing safe products. “Providing safe, healthy food for our customers is why we have been in business this long, and it’s why we are recalling this product today,” he stated.

Consumer Guidance

Consumers are strongly advised to check their cabinets for the recalled chia seeds. If found, they should either discard the product or return it to the point of purchase for a full refund. The FDA has reiterated that salmonella poses a serious health risk, particularly to vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Broader Context of Salmonella Threat

This recall is not an isolated incident. Recent weeks have seen a surge in similar recalls due to salmonella contamination. For instance, Spring & Mulberry has pulled its Mint Leaf Date Sweetened Chocolate Bar from shelves after routine testing revealed traces of the bacteria. This chocolate bar has been available for purchase online and at various retailers since September 15, 2025.

Moreover, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that at least 45 individuals across nearly two dozen states have suffered from salmonella food poisoning linked to SuperFoods Inc.’s Live it Up-brand Super Greens powder, with hospitalisations occurring between August 22 and December 30, 2025. Thankfully, no fatalities have been reported.

Why it Matters

The recall of Navitas Organics’ chia seeds underscores a significant public health issue surrounding food safety in the United States. With multiple products recently flagged for salmonella concerns, consumer vigilance is paramount. Such incidents not only highlight the importance of rigorous safety protocols in the food industry but also remind us of our responsibility to stay informed and proactive about the products we consume. In an era where health and wellness take centre stage, ensuring the safety of our food supply is essential for protecting public health.

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Catherine Bell is a versatile features editor with expertise in long-form journalism and investigative storytelling. She previously spent eight years at The Sunday Times Magazine, where she commissioned and edited award-winning pieces on social issues and human interest stories. Her own writing has earned recognition from the British Journalism Awards.
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