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

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has linked a nationwide outbreak of food poisoning to alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota-based grower. The outbreak, which has affected individuals in at least 15 states, has resulted in over three dozen documented cases, with four requiring hospitalization.

The CDC has identified more than 55 cases across the nation, including instances of salmonella and various strains of E. coli. Of the 34 interviewed patients, 26 reported consuming the sprouts. The implicated sprouts were sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands and have been linked to infections caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, which can lead to severe symptoms like bloody diarrhea and potentially life-threatening kidney failure.

Salmonella poisoning symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and severe vomiting, leading to dehydration and stomach cramps. Everything Sprouts has voluntarily recalled certain lots of its alfalfa sprouts after daily tests conducted since the outbreak began returned negative results. The company stated that it has not reported any illnesses linked to its alfalfa sprouts.

Earlier this year, the FDA issued a warning to the company, citing multiple concerns raised during inspections, such as a leaking roof that contaminated sprouts and employees wearing smocks.