Alfalfa Sprouts Recall Sparks Health Concerns in 15 States

4 weeks ago 0

Amid an outbreak of E. coli and Salmonella, certain alfalfa sprouts have been recalled due to contamination fears. Everything Sprouts LLC initiated the recall on August 22, with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) publicizing the notice to inform consumers. The outbreak has led to 55 reported illnesses across 15 states, with symptoms manifesting between May 31 and August 8. As of August 21, four hospitalizations have occurred, although no deaths have been reported.

Details of the Recall

The recall affects alfalfa sprouts suspected of contamination with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and Salmonella. Products under scrutiny include certain alfalfa sprouts sold by Everything Sprouts and Calco brands, along with specific Everything Sprouts Crunchy Protein Sprout Mix and Zesty Garlic Mix cups. Consumers are strongly advised to discard these products and thoroughly clean any surfaces or containers they may have contacted.

Newsweek contacted Everything Sprouts for a comment on the situation.

Affected Products and Distribution

The recall notice specifies the products affected:

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 products were distributed between May 27 and August 21 to wholesalers and grocery stores in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

States Reporting Illnesses

Florida
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Michigan
Minnesota
New Hampshire
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Washington
Wisconsin

Evidence of Contamination

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that 46 people have been infected with STEC, seven with Salmonella, and two with both pathogens. Among interviewed patients, 76 percent had eaten alfalfa sprouts shortly before falling ill. Epidemiological evidence indicates a link between the Everything Sprouts distributed alfalfa sprouts and the outbreak. Traceback from restaurants and stores further identifies these sprouts as a source of illness. The FDA continues to investigate to uncover the contamination source and identify other potentially affected products.

Guidance for Consumers

The FDA and CDC recommend that consumers dispose of recalled products promptly. They also advise cleaning and sanitizing containers, refrigerators, utensils, and surfaces that might have come into contact with these sprouts to prevent cross-contamination.

Those experiencing symptoms after consuming the sprouts should reach out to healthcare professionals. Typical symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and fever. Bloody diarrhea stands out as a crucial warning sign demanding immediate medical attention.