A multi-state food poisoning outbreak linked to alfalfa sprouts and involving both salmonella and multiple strains of E. coli has sickened at least 55 people across 15 states, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Federal health officials have traced the infections to sprouts produced by Minnesota-based grower Everything Sprouts, which has issued a voluntary recall.
Multi-State Sprouts Outbreak Spreads Across 15 States
Health officials have confirmed a complex food-poisoning outbreak tied to alfalfa sprouts that has affected residents in at least 15 states, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak first came to light after public health agencies documented more than three dozen cases in Minnesota and Wisconsin. By Friday, the CDC reported that the national case count had risen to at least 55 people, resulting in four hospitalizations.
The geographic spread spans nationwide.
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Identifying the Pathogens: Salmonella and E. Coli Strains
Investigating officials face a rare microbial combination in this contamination event. While standard foodborne illness outbreaks trace back to a single pathogen, this incident involves individuals infected with salmonella alongside different strains of E. coli, according to federal health agencies.
Shiga toxin-producing E coli – or Stec – can cause stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea. Infections can lead to a severe complication that involves acute kidney failure. Meanwhile, salmonella poisoning can cause diarrhea, fever, severe vomiting, dehydration and stomach cramps.
Traceback Investigation Points to Minnesota Grower Everything Sprouts
Federal and state investigators have linked the contaminated produce to Everything Sprouts, a grower operating in Minnesota. According to public health officials, the implicated alfalfa sprouts were distributed to restaurants and grocery stores under both the Calco and Everything Sprouts brand names.
In response to the federal investigation, the company initiated a voluntary recall covering specific lots of its alfalfa sprouts. However, Everything Sprouts released a public statement maintaining that it had conducted daily tests since the outbreak began and had not received any positive lab results.
Regulatory records show that the FDA had previously scrutinized the facility.
Consumers and food service operators holding recalled alfalfa products should discard them immediately or return them to the place of purchase to avoid potential infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states have reported cases in the alfalfa sprouts outbreak?
What germs are involved in this food-poisoning incident?
Unlike typical outbreaks driven by a single pathogen, this incident involves multiple germs, specifically salmonella and different strains of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC).
Which company issued a recall for the sprouts?
Everything Sprouts, a grower based in Minnesota, issued a voluntary recall for specific lots of alfalfa sprouts sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands.
How many people have been hospitalized?
Federal health officials reported at least four hospitalizations out of the 55 confirmed cases nationwide.
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