Alfalfa Sprouts Linked to 15-State Food-Poisoning Outbreak

A food-poisoning outbreak affecting multiple states has been traced back to alfalfa sprouts, according to U.S. health officials. The outbreak, which involves both Salmonella and various strains of E. coli, has sickened individuals in 15 states. Minnesota and Wisconsin have reported over three dozen cases, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acknowledging 55 cases nationwide, including four hospitalizations.

The CDC interviewed 34 of the affected individuals, with 26 reporting consumption of alfalfa sprouts. This outbreak differs from typical outbreaks, as it involves multiple types of germs. The implicated sprouts carry Salmonella and various strains of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), which can lead to severe symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, dehydration, fever, and vomiting. In some cases, the infection can cause acute kidney failure.

The implicated sprouts were produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota-based grower, and distributed under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands to restaurants and grocery stores. The FDA has not yet issued a recall for the products. Last year, the FDA issued a warning letter to Everything Sprouts, citing several concerns, including a leaking roof that resulted in water damage to the sprouts and workers not wearing protective smocks.

The Associated Press reached out to Everything Sprouts for comment.