Alfalfa sprouts linked to food poisoning illnesses in Minnesota and Wisconsin
NEW YORK (AP) — Minnesota health officials are warning consumers not to eat certain brands of alfalfa sprouts that have been tied to an unusual outbreak involving different disease-causing…
Minnesota health officials are cautioning consumers against consuming specific brands of alfalfa sprouts that have been associated with an unusual outbreak involving multiple disease-causing bacteria. The outbreak has affected 23 individuals in Minnesota, with two requiring hospitalization. Three cases involved salmonella, one had a strain of E. coli called STEC O168:H8, seven had a different form of E. coli called STEC O103:H25, and 13 had another strain, STEC O26:H11.
Wisconsin has reported an additional 18 cases of illness linked to alfalfa sprouts, according to Minnesota officials. These cases are believed to be connected to alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota grower, and sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands. Minnesota authorities are collaborating with Wisconsin and federal health officials to determine the source and extent of the contamination.
Food poisoning incidents are typically characterized by a single type of germ, but it is uncommon to have multiple types involved. Bill Marler, a Seattle lawyer with extensive experience in food safety cases, noted that while it is unusual, it is not surprising given the nature of alfalfa sprouts. Alfalfa seeds can easily harbor contaminants, are challenging to clean, and can spread contaminants easily when grown in warm water.
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, or STEC, can lead to stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and in severe cases, hemolytic uremic syndrome, which involves acute kidney failure and other serious complications.
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