An ongoing outbreak of E. coli and salmonella has sickened 55 people across 15 states, with federal health officials tracing the infections primarily to contaminated alfalfa sprouts. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the illnesses began in late May and continued through August 8, resulting in four hospitalizations and no reported deaths.
Alfalfa Sprouts Linked to E. Coli and Salmonella Outbreak Across 15 States
Distribution and Recall Details
The implicated alfalfa sprouts were produced by Minneapolis-based Everything Sprouts and distributed to third-party distributors, restaurants, and retail grocery stores starting on May 27, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The products were sold under both the Everything Sprouts and Calco brands, often packaged in 5-ounce plastic containers with a lid.
In response to the federal investigation, Everything Sprouts issued a voluntary recall for specific lots of alfalfa sprouts. The company stated that it has conducted daily tests since the outbreak began and has not received any positive laboratory results from its own testing, adding that no illnesses had been directly reported to the firm regarding its Everyday Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts.
Infection Breakdown and Patient Demographics
Public health investigations reveal that the outbreak involves multiple bacterial strains. According to the FDA, 46 patients were infected with E. coli, seven were infected with salmonella, and two individuals contracted both infections. The illnesses span 15 states, with the highest concentrations reported in Minnesota with 21 cases and Wisconsin with 17 cases.
Additional states reporting cases include New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Florida, Washington, South Dakota, Iowa, Kansas, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Hampshire, and South Carolina. State health departments have actively tracked local impacts, with the Minnesota Department of Health reporting 23 cases between July 8 and August 8, and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services confirming 17 cases.
Symptoms and Guidance for Consumers
Federal health agencies advise consumers who purchased the recalled sprouts to throw them away immediately or return them to the place of purchase, and to thoroughly wash any surfaces that came into contact with the produce. Shiga toxin-producing E. coli infections typically cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and nausea. Salmonella symptoms commonly include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
The CDC recommends seeking immediate medical attention for individuals experiencing high fevers exceeding 102 degrees, bloody diarrhea, symptoms lasting longer than two days, an inability to retain liquids, or signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urination.