Federal health agencies are investigating a multistate outbreak tied to alfalfa sprouts. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed 55 cases of illness, including four hospitalizations, across 15 states.

Source of the outbreak

Traceback data point to alfalfa sprouts distributed by Everything Sprouts, a retailer based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The FDA says the sprouts may be contaminated with multiple pathogens, specifically E. coli and salmonella.

Agency response

The FDA is working with Everything Sprouts and has recommended that the company conduct a voluntary recall of the affected product. The CDC advises consumers not to eat, sell, or serve the identified alfalfa sprouts.

Details of the infections

Of the 55 reported cases, 46 involve E. coli, seven involve salmonella, and two involve both bacteria. Illness onset dates range from May 31 to August 8. Among 34 interviewed patients, 26 reported consuming alfalfa sprouts.

Broader context

This outbreak follows recent food‑borne illness alerts, including a cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to lettuce and a separate salmonella outbreak tied to jalapeños. The series of alerts has heightened consumer caution around fresh produce and dining out.

Health officials continue to monitor the situation and will update the public as more information becomes available.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.