It’s been called “nature’s multivitamin,” but a new alert warns this snack could cause unpleasant side effects (or even serious illness).
A Popular Health Food Was Just Recalled in 3 States and Canada
Published on May 10, 2025
It’s a favorite snack that’s been referred to as “nature’s multivitamin”—and information from the Cleveland Clinic certainly suggests it offers plenty of health benefits. Pumpkin seeds, a common ingredient in trail mix but delicious on their own, contain high levels of magnesium, zinc, and fatty acid, which could help lower blood pressure, manage blood sugar, and support heart health.
Maybe you just remembered that you volunteered for snack duty after a sports game this weekend, or perhaps you need a non-sugary road trip treat for Mother’s Day—don’t forget to pack the healthy snacks! However, you might want to make sure it isn’t one that was just recalled.
On Thursday, May 8, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall of 8-ounce packages of “Organic Jumbo Pumpkin Seeds” by the Ontario, Canada-based company Advantage Health Matters Inc. This event is due to the potential presence of Salmonella bacteria, a leading cause of food poisoning.
The seeds were distributed to three states: New York, New Jersey, and Virginia. They were also distributed throughout Canada, according to a public report from the country’s government.
Packages were sold in both retail locations and via mail. While the report does not list specific retailers, Amazon has shared news of the recall on its site.
Details about the recalled product include:
- Product description: Organic Jumbo Pumpkin Seeds
- Brand: Organic Traditions
- Size: 8 ounces
- Packaging: Clear plastic package
- Lot #: L250320200 (marked on the back)
- Expiration Date: 05/02/2027 (stamped on the side)
The FDA report does not state how the possible Salmonella contamination was discovered but notes that it was “triggered by a recall of a supplier in another country.” Advantage Health Matters Inc.—which sells food items such as berries, seeds, tea, and powder blends, according to its website —has halted production while it looks into the issue.
Though there are many things that can cause cases of Salmonella, it’s most commonly spread from improper food handling and undercooked food, the Cleveland Clinic states.
As of press time, there have been no reports of illness related to the recalled product.
Common symptoms of Salmonella infection are stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever, according to the Mayo Clinic. Most people will not require medical attention and will feel better in a few days. However, people with compromised immune systems, young children, and the elderly may need to see a doctor for treatment.
“In rare circumstances,” the FDA report states, “infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.”
The FDA encourages consumers to return the product to the place of purchase to receive a full refund. Additional details from the FDA—and product images—can be found in the above link.
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