Alfalfa sprouts linked to food-poisoning outbreak in 15 states, US officials say

US healthcare officials have identified a food-poisoning outbreak linked to alfalfa sprouts that has affected people in at least 15 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is aware of at least 55 cases nationally, with four hospitalizations. The outbreak involves multiple germs, including Salmonella and different strains of E. coli. Investigations by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found that a significant number of sick individuals reported consuming alfalfa sprouts. The outbreak has been linked to alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, which has issued a voluntary recall of certain products. The company states it has not received positive lab results for the recalled products.

U.S. health officials are investigating a food-poisoning outbreak linked to alfalfa sprouts that has affected people in 15 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 55 cases nationally, with four hospitalizations. This outbreak is unusual as it involves multiple germs, including Salmonella and different strains of E. coli. Investigations point to alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands, as the likely source. The FDA previously issued a warning letter to the company regarding inspection concerns. Everything Sprouts has not yet issued a recall.

Minnesota health officials are warning consumers not to eat certain alfalfa sprouts due to an unusual outbreak involving multiple disease-causing bacteria. Twenty-three people in Minnesota have fallen ill with E. coli or Salmonella infections, with two hospitalized. Wisconsin has identified an additional 18 cases linked to the same sprouts. The illnesses are connected to alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts and sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands. Experts note that alfalfa sprouts are a common source of contamination due to the difficulty in cleaning seeds and the warm water conditions used for growth. Investigations are ongoing with state and federal health officials to determine the source and extent of the contamination.