Salmonella Outbreak Traced to Moringa Leaf Powder in Supplements
In October 2025, a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to moringa leaf powder in dietary supplements led to 11 reported infections across seven states, resulting in three hospitalizations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have initiated a comprehensive recall of the affected products to prevent further illnesses.
The CDC and FDA traced the outbreak to a specific lot of organic moringa leaf powder imported from Vallon Farm Direct PVT LTD in Jodhpur, India. This contaminated ingredient was used in various products, notably including Member's Mark Super Greens Powdered Supplements sold at Sam's Club stores nationwide. In response, the FDA issued a recall of all Member's Mark Super Greens dietary supplement powder, regardless of lot codes and best by dates. Consumers are advised to avoid consuming the affected products and to dispose of them or return them to the place of purchase.
Moringa is a plant native to India and other countries, valued for its essential nutrients, including protein, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Its leaves can be dried and powdered, making it a popular ingredient in dietary supplements.
Salmonella infection symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, typically developing 6 hours to 6 days after exposure. While most individuals recover without treatment, severe cases can occur, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
The FDA's traceback investigation identified a single lot of organic moringa leaf powder (lot code VFD/ORG/MORP/L/24, best by date November 2027) from Vallon Farm Direct PVT LTD as the source of contamination. This lot was supplied to multiple U.S. distributors.
In addition to the FDA's recall, Africa Imports voluntarily recalled its Organic Moringa Leaf Powder (1-kilogram boxes) due to potential Salmonella contamination. The recalled products were sold nationwide through the company's website. Food To Live also voluntarily recalled its Organic Moringa Leaf Powder and Organic Supergreens Powder Mix, available in various sizes, due to potential Salmonella contamination. These products were sold nationwide through online and wholesale channels.
Sam's Club has ceased distribution and sales of the affected products and has contacted customers directly to notify them of the recall.
The FDA advises consumers and retailers not to eat, sell, or serve recalled Member’s Mark Super Greens dietary supplement powder and to throw this product away or return it to the place of purchase. The FDA is working to determine the point of contamination and what additional products are impacted. This advisory will be updated as information becomes available.
This incident underscores the importance of stringent quality control measures in the importation and distribution of dietary supplements to prevent foodborne illnesses. The outbreak highlights the challenges in monitoring and ensuring the safety of imported food products, emphasizing the need for robust regulatory frameworks.
The Salmonella outbreak linked to moringa leaf powder in dietary supplements serves as a critical reminder of the potential risks associated with contaminated imported products. Consumers are urged to heed recall notices and practice caution when consuming dietary supplements. Regulatory agencies continue to investigate and monitor the situation to prevent further illnesses.