One Arkansan was among the approximately 100 people who contracted salmonella as part of a multistate outbreak linked to a “superfood” in certain dietary supplements, according to a U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention investigation.
CDC officials announced Tuesday that salmonella strains from contaminated moringa leaf powder — typically used to boost immune health and energy — had produced at least 97 illnesses in 32 states between Aug. 22 and Feb. 27.
A statement from the agency noted that those numbers might be an underestimate, as some people with salmonella do not get tested or require medical attention.
No deaths have been reported, though at least 26 were hospitalized, the agency said.
The ages of the 93 patients ranged between 2 and 81, with a median age of 44, according to the CDC. Men or boys accounted for 61% of the patients, the agency said.
Among 67 of the Americans with salmonella that were interviewed, nearly 90% reported consuming a product with the superfood, including 55 who reported eating Live it Up Super Greens supplement powders, exclusively. Three more ate Why Not Natural moringa powder capsules only, while another person had both.
Live it Up, based in New York City, announced Jan. 15 that it was recalling its Super Greens supplement powder due to possible salmonella contamination.
The product had been sold through the company’s website since September 2024 and on Amazon since July 30, 2025.
Weeks later, Why Not Natural, based in Houston, announced that it was voluntarily recalling its moringa powder capsules that had been distributed through Amazon and other online retailers since July due to possible salmonella contamination.
Consumers who purchased either product were urged to throw them out and advised they could contact the companies for a refund.
Federal officials said the outbreak was not related to a separate February investigation into an “extensively drug-resistant Salmonella outbreak” stemming from moringa powder capsules.
Salmonella bacteria are a leading cause of foodborne illness, hospitalization and deaths in the U.S., according to the CDC. Most people infected experience diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Symptoms usually start six hours to six days after swallowing the bacteria. Most people recover without treatment after four to seven days. Some people, especially children younger than 5 and adults 65 or older, may experience more severe illness requiring hospitalization.
Ways of preventing salmonella include washing your hands, preparing and storing food in a safe manner and exercising caution while swimming, traveling abroad and playing with animals, the agency said.
