Everything Sprouts, a sprout producer headquartered in Minneapolis, announced a voluntary recall of multiple lots of its alfalfa sprouts after health officials linked the product to 55 reported cases of food‑borne illness across 15 states.
Recall details
The recalled items include Everything Sprouts branded alfalfa sprouts sold in 5‑ounce plastic containers, Calco branded alfalfa sprouts in the same size, and larger alfalfa packages (6/5‑ounce and 12/6/5‑ounce). The recall also covers the company’s Crunchy Protein Sprout Mix and Zesty Garlic Mix cups that contain the same alfalfa sprouts.
Consumers should check the following bar codes and lot numbers before discarding the product:
- Bar codes: 860014523113, 860014523120, 850079470149
- Lot numbers for plain alfalfa: 222, 223, 225, 226, 230
- Lot numbers for Crunchy Protein Sprout Mix: 222, 223, 226, 230
- Lot numbers for Zesty Garlic Mix: 222, 223, 225, 226, 230
Illnesses reported
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed 55 illnesses, including 46 infections with Shiga toxin‑producing E. coli (STEC) and seven infections with Salmonella Agona. Two individuals were infected with both pathogens. Four hospitalizations have been reported, but no deaths have occurred.
Cases have been identified in Minnesota (21), Wisconsin (17), and in 13 other states, including Florida, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, and Washington.
Health warnings
Both E. coli and Salmonella can cause severe illness, especially in children under five, older adults, pregnant individuals, and anyone with a weakened immune system. E. coli strains that produce Shiga toxin can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious kidney condition that may result in lasting damage or death.
Symptoms of E. coli infection typically appear two to eight days after exposure and may include bloody diarrhea, high fever, vomiting, dehydration, and abdominal cramping. Symptoms of Salmonella infection usually begin six hours to six days after ingestion and include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.
What consumers should do
Anyone who purchased the recalled alfalfa sprouts should discard them immediately and clean any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the product. If you experience severe symptoms—persistent high fever, bloody diarrhea, prolonged vomiting, signs of dehydration, or any kidney‑related issues—contact a health care professional promptly.
Questions about the recall can be directed to Everything Sprouts at [email protected].
Original reporting: Las Cruces Sun News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
