Salmonella in 42 states; Minn. eyes peanut butter?

Salmonella in peanut butter?

ATLANTA – Federal officials have not yet identified the cause of a salmonella outbreak striking almost 400 people in 42 states, but state officials in Minnesota said Friday they believe peanut butter may be involved. On Friday, the Minnesota Department of Health said preliminary laboratory testing found salmonella bacteria in a 5-pound container of King Nut brand creamy peanut butter. The tests have not linked it to the type of salmonella in the national outbreak, but additional results are expected early next week.

Minnesota officials did not immediately identify the company that manufactures the peanut butter or say where else it is distributed.

The product apparently is not sold in grocery stores, but is distributed in Minnesota to long-term care facilities, hospitals, schools, universities, restaurants, delis, cafeterias and bakeries.