Salmonella and E. coli outbreak linked to alfalfa sprouts sickens 41 in Minnesota and Wisconsin
Health officials say 41 people have fallen ill after consuming alfalfa sprouts from a Minnesota grower, prompting recalls and warnings.
Health departments in Minnesota and Wisconsin have confirmed that 41 people were infected with Salmonella and E. coli after eating alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota-based grower. The Minnesota Department of Health reported 23 cases, while Wisconsin reported 18, and three patients required hospitalization.
"The illnesses have been linked to eating alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota grower, and sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands to restaurants and grocery stores," the Minnesota Department of Health said.
Officials advised consumers to check for alfalfa sprouts bearing the Calco or Everything Sprouts labels, discard any found, and avoid consumption. The investigation is being coordinated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and other state health agencies to determine the extent of contamination.
The outbreak appears to be confined to the region, though authorities continue to monitor for additional cases. The FDA previously cited Everything Sprouts for serious violations after an inspection that identified roof leaks, water dripping onto produce, and buildup of organic material on irrigation equipment.