Warning Continues on Foods Containing Peanut Butter

Health officials continue to warn people to avoid foods containing peanut butter, as the number of individuals sickened nationwide in a Salmonella outbreak involving the product has reached nearly 500 cases. The FDA has traced the outbreak to a Blakley, Georgia plant owned by Peanut Corp. of America, which produces peanut butter and peanut paste.

The illnesses have been noted in 43 states and Canada, and may have been a factor in the deaths of six people.

According to the government, consumers should stay away from cookies, cakes and other foods containing peanut butter for the time being. Peanut butter sold in jars to consumers is not considered a problem.