High Hill Ranch, located in the community of Camino in El Dorado County, has initiated a voluntary recall of its unpasteurized apple juice following notification from local health officials of suspected contamination with bacteria, likely Escherichia coli (E. coli.). El Dorado County health officials are warning consumers to not drink and dispose of any unpasteurized apple juice purchased from High Hill Ranch on or after October 6, 2015.The El Dorado County Environmental Management and Public Health divisions were notified this week by the Sacramento County Department of Health and Human Services of at least seven (7) cases of E. coli illness among Sacramento County residents who consumed the unpasteurized apple juice from High Hill Ranch in mid-October. The apple juice was consumed at home or at High Hill Ranch. One person has been hospitalized and is expected to recover.E. coli is caused by the Escherichia coli bacteria. People can get sick when they consume food or drink that is contaminated by the bacteria. Symptoms of E. coli illness typically include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting and sometimes low-grade fever. The symptoms usually occur within 3-4 days after exposure, but can occur anywhere between 1 to 12 days after exposure.Most people who get sick from E. coli recover within 5 to 7 days. Supportive care, such as making sure a person drinks plenty of liquids and gets rest are important for people with the illness. For severe cases, particularly in children, elderly people or those with underlying health problems, a health care provider should be consulted.
The El Dorado County Environmental Management Division, Public Health Division and California Department of Public Health are working closely with the management at High Hill Ranch to determine the source of the potential contamination. The High Hill Ranch Management has pulled the product from the shelves.
“WARNING: This product has not been pasteurized and, therefore, may contain harmful bacteria that can cause serious illness in children, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems.”
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