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Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Alfalfa sprouts are making people sick in a big way. A multistate outbreak tied to sprouts from Minnesota grower Everything Sprouts has sickened 55 people across 15 states with both Salmonella and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli — an unusual combination. Four people have been hospitalized, and the company has recalled several product lots sold in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
A multistate food-poisoning outbreak linked to alfalfa sprouts has taken an unusual turn — it involves two different pathogens at once. The CDC has confirmed 55 cases across 15 states, with both Salmonella and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) identified in the same outbreak, and two individuals infected with both simultaneously. Everything Sprouts, LLC, a Minneapolis-based grower, has recalled specific lots of its branded products sold to grocery stores and wholesale distributors in Minnesota and Wisconsin between May 27 and Aug. 21.
Adding to the concern, the FDA had already sent Everything Sprouts a warning letter last year flagging sanitation issues found during inspections — including a leaking roof dripping water onto bean sprouts and workers' smocks. Of 34 sick people interviewed, 26 reported eating alfalfa sprouts, strengthening the epidemiological link.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: Dual-pathogen outbreaks are rare and complicate both diagnosis and public health response. Clinicians should consider sprout consumption in patients presenting with GI symptoms, especially bloody diarrhea, and be alert to the risk of hemolytic uremic syndrome in vulnerable populations.
