Certain alfalfa sprouts have been recalled after an outbreak of E. coli and Salmonella infections affecting 55 individuals across 15 states. The recall was announced by Everything Sprouts LLC on August 22. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) later posted the recall notice to inform the public. The illnesses were first reported between May 31 and August 8, with four hospitalizations and no deaths as of August 21, as stated by the FDA. The investigation is ongoing.
The recall includes products potentially contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and Salmonella. It covers specific lots of alfalfa sprouts sold under the Everything Sprouts and Calco brands and certain Everything Sprouts Crunchy Protein Sprout Mix and Zesty Garlic Mix cups. Consumers are advised to discard affected products and to “carefully clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that the product may have touched.”
Affected Products and Distribution
According to the recall notice, the affected products include:
- Five-ounce containers of Everything Sprouts and Calco branded alfalfa sprouts with lot numbers 222, 223, 225, 226, or 230 and bar codes 860014523113, 860014523120, or 850079470149.
- Everything Sprouts Crunchy Protein Sprout Mix (5-ounce cups), lot numbers 222, 223, 226, and 230.
- Everything Sprouts Zesty Garlic Mix (5-ounce cups), lot numbers 222, 223, 225, 226, and 230.
The company distributed these products to wholesalers and grocery stores in Minnesota and Wisconsin between May 27 and August 21.
The FDA reports that these states associated with the outbreak have reported illnesses:
- Florida
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- New Hampshire
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Washington
- Wisconsin
Evidence Linking Outbreak to Sprouts
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that 46 people have been infected with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), seven with Salmonella, and two with both pathogens. Of the 34 patients interviewed, 76% had consumed alfalfa sprouts prior to illness. FDA confirmed that epidemiological evidence indicates the sprouts from Everything Sprouts could be contaminated. Traceback information from eateries and grocery stores pointed to these sprouts as the source. The investigation to identify the contamination source or additional affected products continues.
What Consumers Should Do
The FDA and CDC strongly advise against eating the recalled products, instructing consumers to dispose of them “immediately.” It’s recommended to clean and sanitize containers, refrigerators, utensils, and other surfaces potentially exposed to the sprouts to avoid cross-contamination.
Individuals experiencing symptoms after consuming the products should seek medical assistance. Symptoms associated with STEC and Salmonella infections include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and fever. Bloody diarrhea is a critical warning sign, prompting the need for medical advice.