Alfalfa Sprouts Food Poisoning Outbreak Hits 15 States 2026

Alfalfa sprouts have been linked to a multi-state food poisoning outbreak that has sickened at least 55 people across 15 states, according to US health officials. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating cases involving Salmonella and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). The outbreak has been traced to alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts, a Minnesota grower, which has issued a voluntary recall.

Outbreak Overview and States Affected

The CDC announced the outbreak after documenting dozens of cases in Minnesota and Wisconsin, with at least 55 cases reported nationally. Four individuals have been hospitalized. Cases have been reported in Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Of the 34 sick people interviewed, 26 reported eating alfalfa sprouts, indicating a strong link to the product. The outbreak is unusual because it involves multiple pathogens—Salmonella and different strains of E. coli—rather than a single germ.

Health Risks and Symptoms

Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) can cause severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, and vomiting. In some cases, it can lead to a life-threatening complication called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can result in acute kidney failure. Salmonella poisoning typically causes diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, and vomiting, and can be particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

If you have consumed alfalfa sprouts and experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Most healthy adults recover within a week, but severe cases may require hospitalization.

Recalled Products and Brands

Everything Sprouts, the Minnesota-based grower, has voluntarily recalled its alfalfa sprouts sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands. These products were distributed to restaurants and grocery stores in multiple states. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators for any recalled sprouts and discard them immediately.

Prevention and Safety Tips

To reduce the risk of foodborne illness from sprouts, follow these guidelines:

• Avoid eating raw sprouts, especially if you are pregnant, elderly, or have a weakened immune system.
• Cook sprouts thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria.
• Wash hands, cutting boards, and utensils after handling raw sprouts.
• Keep sprouts refrigerated at all times and discard if past the sell-by date.

What to Do if You Have Recalled Sprouts

If you have purchased recalled alfalfa sprouts, do not consume them. You can return them to the store for a refund or dispose of them in a sealed bag. Clean any surfaces that may have come into contact with the sprouts using hot, soapy water or a disinfectant.

If you experience symptoms of Salmonella or E. coli infection after eating sprouts, contact your healthcare provider. Report the illness to your local health department to help with the investigation.

Ongoing Investigation

The CDC and FDA continue to investigate the outbreak to determine the full scope and ensure all contaminated products are removed from the market. The agencies are working with state health departments to identify additional cases and trace the distribution of the recalled sprouts.

Stay updated by visiting the CDC's food safety website or following local news. This is a developing situation, and more recalls may be issued as the investigation progresses.

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