E. coli Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Alfalfa Sprouts

A multistate outbreak of E. coli and Salmonella infections has been linked to alfalfa sprouts distributed by United States — Minnesota-based Everything Sprouts. As of August 21, 55 people across 15 states have been infected, with 46 cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), seven of Salmonella, and two with both pathogens. Four people have been hospitalized, and no deaths have been reported. Illnesses began on May 31, with the most recent case on August 8. Traceback investigations identified Everything Sprouts as the source, and the company voluntarily recalled certain lots of alfalfa sprouts sold under the Everything Sprouts and Calco brands. The recalled products were distributed from May 27 through August 21 to retail stores and distributors in United States — Minnesota and United States — Wisconsin. The FDA has begun an inspection at the company, and the CDC has issued a food-safety alert advising consumers not to eat the affected sprouts. The outbreak follows a separate ongoing Salmonella outbreak linked to jalapeño peppers from Sinaloa Cartel, Mexico, which has sickened over 400 people.