Salmonella Outbreak Expands: Nearly 100 Sickened by Contaminated Moringa Supplements
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an urgent update regarding a widespread salmonella outbreak linked to popular moringa powder supplements. The number of confirmed illnesses has now climbed to 97 cases across 32 states, with more than two dozen individuals requiring hospitalization.
Recall Details and Product Information
The outbreak is connected to two specific brands of dietary supplements: Why Not Natural Pure Organic Moringa Green Superfood capsules and Live it Up Super Greens supplement powders. Initial recalls were issued in January, with the Why Not Natural products recalled on January 28 and the Superfoods products recalled on January 16.
Affected products include:
- Why Not Natural Pure Organic Moringa Green Superfood capsules (120-capsule bottles with lot #A25G051 and expiration date July 2028)
- Live it Up Super Greens, NET WT 8.5oz (240g) with UPC 860013190804
- Live it Up Super Greens, 30 – 0.28oz (8g) sticks, NET WT. 8.47oz (240g) with UPC 850077468063
- Live it Up Super Greens, Wild Berry, NET WT 9.49oz (269.16g), with UPC 860013190811
- Live it Up Super Greens, Wild Berry, 30 – 0.32oz (9g) Sticks, NET WT. 9.52oz (270g), with UPC 850077468070
Distribution and Sales Timeline
The contaminated supplements were sold nationwide through various channels, including the companies' respective websites, Amazon, and potentially through unauthorized third-party distributors on platforms like eBay and Walmart.com. Sales occurred between September 2024 and January 2026 for the Superfoods products, and between July 2025 and January 2026 for Why Not Natural products. Some products were also distributed to consumers in the United Kingdom.
"While these products should no longer be available for purchase, their extended shelf lives mean consumers may still have them in their homes," health officials warned. Customers who purchased any recalled products are urged to immediately discontinue use and return them to the place of purchase.
Investigation Findings and Patient Demographics
The outbreak investigation has revealed concerning details about the contamination source and affected individuals. Illnesses connected to these recalls began appearing in August 2025, with the most recent case reported on February 27, 2026. Patients range in age from 2 to 81 years old.
Of the 67 people interviewed by health authorities, 59 reported consuming products containing moringa leaf powder. This includes 55 individuals who consumed Live it Up Super Greens and three who consumed Why Not Natural capsules, with one person having consumed both products.
Laboratory testing has confirmed salmonella contamination in multiple samples. The FDA detected outbreak strains in two moringa leaf powder ingredient samples and one opened product sample of Why Not Natural capsules. State health departments in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota have also identified the outbreak strain in various Live it Up Super Greens samples.
Manufacturing Connection and Health Risks
FDA tracing has identified a common manufacturer between the two brands, suggesting this could be the source of the bacterial contamination. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the exact point of contamination in the supply chain.
Salmonella infection typically causes mild to moderate symptoms including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, usually appearing within 12 to 72 hours of exposure. While healthy adults generally recover within four to seven days, the bacteria can cause life-threatening complications in vulnerable populations.
Those at particular risk include:
- Children under five years old
- Senior citizens
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
In severe cases, salmonella can spread to the bloodstream, potentially causing sepsis, aneurysms, or endocarditis—a dangerous inflammation of the heart's inner lining.
About Moringa Powder and Its Popularity
Moringa powder is derived from the crushed leaves of the moringa tree, a plant native to India that has been promoted for its nutritional benefits. Often described as a "miracle tree," moringa powder gained significant popularity in the 2010s as a dietary supplement mixed into foods and beverages.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, moringa powder is rich in nutrients and has been associated with supporting healthy bones, eyesight, and weight management. However, this outbreak highlights the potential risks associated with contaminated dietary supplements, even those marketed for health benefits.
The CDC emphasizes that the true number of illnesses is likely much higher than the 97 confirmed cases, as many people recover from salmonella without seeking medical care or testing. Health officials continue to monitor the situation and urge consumers to check their homes for any recalled products.
