Alfalfa sprouts linked to multistate Salmonella and E. coli outbreak

Health officials are investigating a multistate food poisoning outbreak linked to alfalfa sprouts, which has sickened at least 55 people across 15 U.S. states. The outbreak is considered unusual because it involves two different types of bacteria: Salmonella and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC).

Investigators are focusing on sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota-based company. The products were distributed to grocery stores and restaurants under both the Everything Sprouts and Calco brand names. Minnesota and Wisconsin have reported the highest number of illnesses, with over 30 cases combined between the two states.

At least four individuals have been hospitalized due to the infections. Symptoms of Salmonella include fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, while STEC can cause severe stomach cramps and bloody diarrhea, potentially leading to acute kidney failure. While the FDA has identified the producer of interest, the company has not yet issued a formal recall.