Multiple moringa leaf powder products, marketed as natural health boosters, face nationwide recalls after testing revealed contamination with harmful microbes like Salmonella. The contamination has sickened at least 13 people across seven U.S. states, leading to three hospitalizations. Federal health agencies are investigating the widespread issue, urging consumers to check their homes for affected products.^[1][2] Widespread Contamination Prompts Recalls The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched an investigation after an outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to moringa leaf powder. The outbreak, which occurred between May 12 and September 4, 2025, identified Salmonella Richmond as the specific strain causing illnesses.^[2] Several companies have initiated voluntary recalls of their moringa leaf powder products. Africa Imports recalled its Organic Moringa Leaf Powder, sold in one-kilogram boxes, for products purchased after June 5, 2025. This product was distributed nationwide through the company's website.^[3][4] Food To Live, a Brooklyn, New York-based company, also recalled its Organic Moringa Leaf Powder and Organic Supergreens Powder Mix. These products were sold in various sizes, from 8-ounce to 44-pound bags, and distributed nationwide through the company's site, major online retailers like Amazon.com and Walmart.com, and wholesale channels.^[1][5][6] Additionally, Member's Mark Super Greens powdered supplements, which contain moringa leaf powder, were recalled. These supplements were sold at Sam's Club stores nationwide and online. The FDA ordered the recall of all Member's Mark Super Greens dietary supplement powder, regardless of production, packaging, or sale date.^[7][8] The contamination has been traced back to a single lot of organic moringa leaf powder supplied by Vallon Farmdirect PVT LTD of Jodhpur, India. This specific lot, labeled Batch No.: VFD/ORG/MORP/L/24 with a best by date of November 2027, has been identified as the source of the outbreak.^[8] The FDA continues its investigation to determine if other products might be affected.^[7] Health Risks for Consumers Salmonella infection can cause serious and sometimes fatal illnesses, particularly in young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. Healthy people infected with Salmonella often experience symptoms like fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These symptoms typically appear within 12 to 72 hours after consuming contaminated food and can last four to seven days.^[3][6][9] In rare cases, Salmonella can enter the bloodstream, leading to more severe conditions such as arterial infections, endocarditis, or arthritis. The CDC reported that 11 people in the recent outbreak became sick, with three requiring hospitalization.^[7][10] Experts believe the actual number of affected individuals could be higher, as many people do not seek medical attention or get tested for Salmonella.^[1][2] Beyond Salmonella, health experts warn that poor handling of dried moringa leaves can allow other harmful microbes, including E. coli and parasites, to survive. These germs often originate from contaminated water, soil, or unhygienic processing methods. Drying the leaves does not always eliminate these pathogens, especially if safety checks are inadequate.^[2] E. coli can cause severe stomach pain and watery or bloody diarrhea, with some strains potentially damaging the kidneys, especially in children. Parasites, though harder to detect, can persist in dried plant products and may lead to long-lasting digestive issues, weight loss, and nutrient deficiencies. These effects can develop slowly, making the source of illness difficult to trace.^[2] Powdered supplements like moringa are particularly vulnerable to contamination. Their large surface area allows germs to spread evenly throughout the product. Many consumers add moringa powder directly to food or drinks without cooking it, bypassing the heat step that could kill harmful bacteria.^[2] Ongoing Investigation and Consumer Advice The FDA and CDC continue to investigate the extent of the contamination and any additional products that may be impacted. The FDA has also issued public health warnings against unregistered moringa powder products, emphasizing that unregistered items have not undergone evaluation processes to ensure their quality and safety.^[11][12][13] Consumers are urged to immediately stop using any recalled moringa leaf powder products and dispose of them. It is also important to thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the contaminated powder, using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.^[9][4][10] If you believe you have consumed a recalled product and are experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, or abdominal cramps, contact a healthcare provider immediately.^[5][9] Consumers should always check product labels and verify registration with food safety authorities when purchasing supplements.

AI Insights Hub