Suspect Juice Removed From Boise Stores

The brand of juice linked to an outbreak of E. coli bacterial poisoning was found Thursday in two Boise stores, and Idaho health officials said they were unsure where else in the state it might be sold.

The Central District Health Department was informed about the presence of Odwalla juices in Boise stores and informed the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

Dr. Christine Hahn, an epidemiologist for the state Division of Health, and Don Brothers, food program supervisor for the agency, warned anyone that might have bought Odwalla juice anywhere in Idaho not to drink it. They were warning wholesalers, retailers and warehouses throughout the state to ensure the products are off their shelves.

Meanwhile, the source of the outbreak may be pinpointed within a week, Washington state officials said Thursday.

So far 13 cases have been confirmed in the Puget Sound area, at least eight potential cases are under investigation in Washington state and four others are being reviewed in Colorado, health officials said.

Dietary histories of the victims and genetic “fingerprinting” of the bacteria linked the outbreak to apple juice that is used in many of Odwalla’s mixed fresh-fruit beverages.

Odwalla Inc., based in Half Moon Bay, Calif., has recalled all products containing apple juice.