21 people sick from salmonella in chia seed powder

21 people have been sickened across the U.S after using health food powder that was contaminated with Salmonella.

According to Reuters,those who were sickened used chia seed powder.

“It is the first time that chia powder has been identified as a food that transmits salmonella,” said Dr. Laura Gieraltowski, a private investigator for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Chia seeds are also known for their long shelf life and popularity. Meaning that they may still remain in the homes of consumers, who bought them, reported Bloomberg BusinessWeek.

“People may use a tablespoon to sprinkle in their smoothie or put on top of their food. This is not something you just consume and throw out,” said Gieraltowski.

The company, Navitas Naturals, has recalled products that may contain Salmonella.

In Canada, there have been 30 cases of Salmonella infections which have also been tied to chia seed powder, reported CBC News.

Five people were hospitalized, and no deaths were yet reported in Canada.