Sunita Somvanshi
Federal health agencies are investigating a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and Salmonella linked to alfalfa sprouts. As of now, at least 55 people have become sick across 15 states, with 4 cases severe enough to require hospitalization. This is the latest in a series of food safety incidents affecting consumers nationwide. Similar recalls have been covered at GigaNectar.
The outbreak has been traced to alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota-based grower. The affected sprouts were sold under two brand names: Calco and Everything Sprouts. The products were distributed to both restaurants and grocery stores. Consumers who purchased these products should check their refrigerators immediately.
Wisconsin and Minnesota have been hit hardest. Wisconsin alone accounts for 17 cases—the largest number in any state. Minnesota follows as the second most affected state with 23 cases. Of 34 patients who were interviewed by health officials, 26 said they had eaten alfalfa sprouts before becoming ill, linking 76 percent of those patients to the contaminated product.
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli is a particularly dangerous strain that can cause severe symptoms including bloody diarrhea, kidney problems, and in 5-10% of cases, potentially leading to kidney failure. Salmonella causes symptoms like fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, typically within a few days of exposure. The CDC has issued detailed guidance on symptoms to watch for. Food safety reporting at NewsPandit has tracked similar outbreaks.
Everything Sprouts voluntarily issued a recall of the affected alfalfa sprouts. In the meantime, the CDC is advising consumers, restaurants, and retailers not to eat, sell, or serve any alfalfa sprouts from Everything Sprouts or the Calco brand. Similar recalls have affected other food products this year.
Sprouts are a recurring source of foodborne illness outbreaks. The warm, humid conditions required to grow sprouts create an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. Even with careful handling, pathogenic bacteria can survive on sprout seeds and grow rapidly once sprouting begins.
If you purchased alfalfa sprouts in recent weeks, check the brand and producer on the package. If the sprouts are from Everything Sprouts or labeled as Calco brand, do not consume them. Anyone who has eaten these sprouts and experienced symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, or abdominal pain should seek medical attention and notify their healthcare provider of the possible exposure.
Health officials continue to investigate the source of the contamination and work with producers to prevent further illnesses.
