Alfalfa Sprouts Fingered in Salmonella Outbreak – Recalled

Sprouters Northwest, Inc. (Kent, WA) today agreed to recall packages of alfalfa sprouts after the sprouts were linked to an outbreak of Salmonella Typhimurium in Washington and Oregon. 

The following products, all of which contain alfalfa sprouts, are included in the recall and should be discarded immediately:

• Alfalfa Sprouts 5 oz cup
  
• Alfalfa Sprouts 4 oz clamshell
  
• Salad Sprouts 5 oz cup
  
• Salad Sprouts 4 oz clamshell
  
• Onion Sprouts 5 oz cup
  
• Onion Sprouts 4 oz clamshell
  
• Alfalfa Sprouts 1 lb bag
  
• Alfalfa Sprouts 2 lb tray
  

The contaminated sprouts are responsible for 9 cases of salmonellosis in 7 Washington counties (Clark, Island, King, Pierce, Snohomish, Thurston, Whatcom). Two of the 9 Washington victims have been hospitalized. Four Oregonians also have been infected. All of the illnesses have occurred since August 1st.

The recalled products were distributed to grocery stores, wholesalers, delis and restaurants in both Washington and Oregon. Neither state has posted a list of retail establishments that stocked the recalled sprouts.

The sprouts may have been served raw in salads or sandwiches. Anyone who has consumed raw alfalfa sprouts, either at home or while eating out, since the beginning of August, and who has experienced symptoms of salmonellosis – diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, mild fever – should seek medical attention promptly.