Food poisoning outbreak linked to alfalfa sprouts impacts 15 states
U.S. health officials report a food-poisoning outbreak associated with alfalfa sprouts, affecting individuals across 15 states, reports BritPanorama.
State officials announced the outbreak earlier this week, detailing over three dozen cases in Minnesota and Wisconsin. As of Friday, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded 55 cases nationwide, with four individuals requiring hospitalization.
In addition to Minnesota and Wisconsin, cases have also been documented in Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington, according to the CDC.
Among 34 individuals who were interviewed, 26 reported consuming alfalfa sprouts, as stated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Normally, food poisoning outbreaks are linked to a single germ; however, this incident involves both salmonella and various strains of E. coli.
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli, or STEC, can lead to stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea, potentially resulting in acute kidney failure. Salmonella poisoning typically causes diarrhea, fever, severe vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps.
Officials have connected these cases to alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota grower, which are sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands to retailers and restaurants. The FDA has noted that the company has not yet issued a recall.
Last year, the FDA issued a warning letter to Everything Sprouts, highlighting concerns raised during inspections regarding issues like a leaking roof contaminating food products and inadequate sanitation practices.
The Associated Press has reached out to Everything Sprouts for comments but has not yet received a response.
This situation underscores ongoing challenges related to food safety in the U.S., particularly regarding the handling and processing of fresh produce.
