Drug-Resistant Salmonella Prompts Recall of Moringa Capsules Sold Across Dozens of Nations

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Seven Illnesses Trigger Urgent Investigation (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)

United States – Federal health authorities recalled Rosabella-brand moringa capsules after linking them to a multistate outbreak of extensively drug-resistant Salmonella that hospitalized three people.[1][2]

Seven Illnesses Trigger Urgent Investigation

Health officials reported seven confirmed cases across seven states, marking a significant concern given the pathogen’s resistance profile. Patients experienced symptoms with onset dates ranging from November 7, 2025, to January 8, 2026. Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Tennessee, and Washington each recorded one illness. Three individuals required hospitalization, though no deaths occurred.[1][2]

Epidemiologic evidence pointed directly to the capsules, with all three interviewed patients confirming consumption of Rosabella moringa powder. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classified the strain as extensively drug-resistant Salmonella Newport, resistant to frontline antibiotics typically used for treatment. This outbreak stood apart from an earlier Salmonella incident involving other moringa products earlier in 2026.[3]

Details of the Recalled Supplement

Ambrosia Brands LLC initiated a voluntary recall on February 13, 2026, targeting 52 specific lots of Rosabella Moringa Capsules. The product came in 60-count white plastic bottles featuring a green label, with expiration dates from March 2027 through November 2027. Lot codes, printed on the bottle bottom, all began with “1356” and ended in “-1” or “-2,” such as 5020591-1 or 5100048-2.[4]

Primarily marketed as a superfood supplement for immune and gut health, the capsules contained moringa leaf powder. Ambrosia Brands, based in New York, distributed them nationwide via its website tryrosabella.com and TikTok Shop starting in February 2025. Unauthorized resales appeared on platforms like eBay and Shein, though the company confirmed no official Amazon sales.[4]

Distribution Spans US Territories and Globe

Sales extended beyond the mainland United States to territories including American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The FDA’s traceback revealed shipments to dozens of foreign markets, amplifying the recall’s scope. Countries affected included Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Japan, India, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, and many others—over 70 nations in total, from Algeria to Zimbabwe.[1][2]

Investigators continued to trace the contamination source while urging international partners to monitor for cases. Ambrosia Brands halted purchases from the implicated raw material supplier and cooperated fully with regulators.[4]

Recognizing Risks and Taking Action

Salmonella infections often caused fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps, particularly severe in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immunity. Vulnerable individuals faced risks of bloodstream invasion leading to complications like arterial infections or arthritis. Healthy adults typically recovered within days, but the drug resistance complicated treatment.[4]

• Check bottle lot codes and expiration dates immediately.
• Discard recalled products or return them to the purchase point.
• Clean surfaces and containers with hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
• Seek medical help for symptoms like bloody diarrhea, high fever, or dehydration.
• Report illnesses to local health departments.

Consumers with questions contacted Ambrosia Brands at 914-768-1357, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT.[4]

This incident underscored the importance of vigilance with trending supplements, even natural ones. As investigations progressed, consumers worldwide benefited from swift regulatory action. What do you think about the risks of superfood supplements? Tell us in the comments.