Update 12/30/22: The CDC has updated its food safety alert about the salmonella outbreak linked to alfalfa sprouts. Lot numbers 3212 and 4212 4211 and 5211 have been added as additions. Customers with product from these lot numbers in their possession should stop using it and dispose of it immediately. Continuing updates from the CDC regarding the outbreak can be found at the following link: https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/typhimurium-12-22/index.html !
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), in cooperation with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Douglas County Health Department, Sarpy/Cass Health Department and Three Rivers Public Health Department, continues to investigate a cluster of illnesses gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria Salmonella Typhimurium. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are assisting with the investigation.
SunSprout Enterprises is voluntarily recalling two lots (#4211 and 5211) of raw alfalfa sprouts in 4-ounce shells, with best-by dates between 12/10/22 and 12/27/22, due to possible contamination with Salmonella. Consumers with product from these lot numbers in their possession should stop using it and dispose of it immediately. For more information about this recall, please visit: https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/sunsprout-enterprises-voluntarily-recalls-two-lots-alfalfa-sprouts-due-potential-contamination . If you have been sick with diarrhea after eating alfalfa, please contact your local health department immediately (https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/local-health-departments.aspx), and call your doctor if you need medical attention.
“This investigation and the fast track to results underscores the critical role of public health investigations. From the first individuals who reported illness to state and local health departments who investigated further, to rapid sequencing at the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory, and to national assistance from the CDC and FDA, statewide and national cooperation allowed us to limit the product suspect as quickly as we do. This is a great example of public health at work. The investigation is ongoing, DHHS will provide more updates as needed.” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Matthew Donahue.
As of December 29, 2022, 16 ill individuals reported consuming SunSprout brand alfalfa between December 4-13, either at local restaurants or at their homes after purchasing from local grocery stores. Eight diseased individuals are genetically related to Salmonella Typhimurium, and results from 7 individuals are still pending.
Most people with Salmonella The infection will clear up within 4-7 days without antibiotics. People with weakened immune systems, those over 65 or under the age of 1 are at increased risk of serious illness. Salmonella infections. For more information about Salmonella please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/index.html
