Spinach that kills

AS SEEN ON PRRAG.COM

E. coli, the deadly bacteria usually found in raw, processed meats, has appeared in, of all things, bagged spinach. At press time, nine states had reported E. coli cases already, with more outbreaks possible.

Stores have begun to systematically purge their shelves of the leafy green vegetable after federal health officials said simply: "don't eat bagged spinach."

Officials also warn that washing the produce will not remove the bacteria. One death has already been reported in Wisconsin, which has reported 19 other cases of E. coli among its residents, 11 of which were reported in Milwaukee. Elsewhere, Connecticut, Idaho, Indiana, Michigan, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, California and Ohio have reported possible outbreaks.

There are nearly 75,000 cases of E. coli infection per year in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most adults are able to recover from exposure, which results in bowel problems, within one week. Children and senior citizens fare worse. The bacteria cause over 50 deaths per year nationally.

According to a CNN article, the tainted spinach may have been grown in California. A probable cause for the outbreak is exposure to animal manure, where E. coli is commonly found. Farmers are not supposed to use manure to fertilize products like spinach, which are commonly eaten raw.

Children now have an excuse not to eat their veggies.

Parents: push the apples; they're still safe...for now.