Consumer Alert Regarding Baugher's Apple Cider

The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) and local health departments are conducting an investigation of a cluster of seven E. coli O157 infections.

There have been no deaths, although three of the seven cases have been hospitalized. A potential association exists with the consumption of unpasteurized Baugher's apple cider.

In response to this ongoing investigation, Baugher's Orchard & Farm of Westminster, MD today issued a voluntary recall of all its apple cider because of its potential to contain the E. coli bacteria. At this time, no other Baugher's products are affected by this recall.

E. coli O157 can cause severe bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps, fever, non-bloody diarrhea, or no symptoms at all. Some infected people, particularly young children and the elderly, may develop a form of kidney failure known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to serious kidney damage and even death.If a person has an illness consistent with E. coli O157 he or she should see their healthcare provider. Consumers should not consume the recalled cider and should discard any remaining cider.

Approximately 20-40 E. coli O157 cases are reported in Maryland each year. Last year 24 E coli O157 cases were reported to DHMH.

A fact sheet on E. coli O157 can be found at http://edcp.org/factsheets/ecoli.cfm