US health officials are investigating a salmonella outbreak linked to an easily available brand of moringa powder – from the tree of the same name, which claims to have healing properties – after consumers were admitted to hospitals across seven states, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and FDA.
Authorities said seven cases, three of which resulted in hospitalisations, could be linked to the Rosabella-branded capsules, reports CBS News.
Ambrosia Brands, the distributor, has voluntarily recalled potentially contaminated product lots of the powder capsules, which are packaged in a 60-count white bottle with a green lid and label.
They were sold through Rosabella’s website and TikTok shop, as well as through Ebay, Shein, and other retailers.
The powder from the moringa tree, found in warm regions worldwide and whose leaves and pods contain several essential nutrients, is used to make beverages claiming to treat a range of conditions, including ulcers, toothache and hypertension.
“Some of the health claims around moringa (especially those made by supplement manufacturers) don’t have a lot of evidence to support them,” according to the Cleveland Clinic.
“Much more (and better quality) research is needed before healthcare providers can say that moringa prevents or treats illness of any kind.”
Salmonella can cause serious, and sometimes fatal, infections in people with compromised immune systems.
CBS article – FDA investigating Salmonella outbreak connected to moringa powder (Open access)
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NICD statement on Salmonella cases in KwaZulu-Natal