The FDA and CDC say 22 people in four states — Idaho, Montana, Utah and Washington — have been sickened in a Salmonella outbreak, with two hospitalizations and no deaths. Of 19 patients interviewed, all 19 reported eating sprouts and 17 specifically reported eating broccoli sprouts. The FDA says traceback work identified Evergreen Fresh Sprouts LLC of Moyie Springs, Idaho, as the common grower.
Evergreen Fresh Sprouts has recalled broccoli sprouts packaged in plastic bags and plastic clamshell containers with expiration dates of September 7, 9, 11, 14 and 16. The recalled sprouts were sold to grocery stores, restaurants and foodservice customers in Idaho, Montana and Washington, although federal officials say the products may have been distributed to additional states.
The recall began September 4 after Montana officials collected and tested a broccoli sprout sample that was positive for Salmonella. Whole-genome sequencing determined that the Salmonella found in the sample was the same strain responsible for illnesses in the outbreak, according to the FDA. Reported illnesses began between July 7 and August 26.
Consumers should not eat the recalled broccoli sprouts and restaurants and retailers should not serve or sell them. The FDA also recommends thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and containers that may have come into contact with the sprouts to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
Salmonella illness typically develops within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food and can cause diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. Symptoms generally last four to seven days, while young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems face a greater risk of severe infection.
The Readovia Lens
With recalled sprouts reaching grocery stores, restaurants and foodservice customers — and possible distribution beyond the three states currently confirmed — consumers should check any broccoli sprouts they have at home against the recalled expiration dates. The FDA’s investigation remains active, meaning the number of illnesses or affected locations could change as officials continue tracing the outbreak.
