Alfalfa Sprouts Linked to E. coli and Salmonella Outbreak in Minnesota and Wisconsin
Minnesota and Wisconsin health officials warn consumers to avoid certain alfalfa sprouts tied to an outbreak of E. coli and salmonella, sickening dozens and hospitalizing two.
Health authorities in Minnesota and Wisconsin have issued warnings about alfalfa sprouts linked to a multi-pathogen outbreak. The sprouts, grown by Everything Sprouts and marketed as Calco and Everything Sprouts, are associated with 23 illnesses in Minnesota—three salmonella cases (one also carrying STEC O168:H8) and several STEC infections (O103:H25 and O26:H11)—and 18 cases in Wisconsin. Two Minnesota patients required hospitalization.
Investigators are working with federal health officials to trace the contamination. Legal specialist Bill Marler explained that alfalfa sprouts can easily harbor bacteria because seeds are hard to clean and are cultivated in warm water. He emphasized that simultaneous outbreaks of different bacteria are uncommon. The agencies urge consumers to avoid the implicated brands until the source is identified.
Why it matters
The outbreak highlights food-safety risks in fresh produce and prompts consumers to avoid potentially contaminated sprouts.
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