Salmonella in sprouts sickens 44 in Australia
More than 40 people have fallen ill in Australia after eating alfalfa sprouts.
The salmonella outbreak affects at least 44 people nationwide, including 18 in New South Wales, 15 in Queensland, nine in Victoria and two in South Australia.
Various alfalfa sprouts produced by Parilla Fresh have been recalled due to potential Salmonella contamination.
The recall follows an investigation by health and food regulators into a rise in Salmonella infections.
Product recall
The company has recalled the products while the investigation continues and additional testing is undertaken. Hugo’s brand alfalfa onion and garlic sprouts; Alfalfa radish sprouts; Alfalfa and onion sprouts; Salad sprouts; Alfalfa and broccoli sprouts; and Trio Sprouts Selection as well as Aussie Sprouts alfalfa sprouts are involved.
According to New South Wales (NSW) Health, the affected alfalfa sprouts were sold in several supermarkets including Coles, Woolworths, IGA and other grocers and independent stores in NSW, Queensland, Victoria, Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory and South Australia. They are presented in 125 gram packages with expiration dates up to and including November 20.
In Victoria, Flowerdale Farm has recalled various sprout products sold in fruit and vegetable stores across the state.
NSW Health health branch director Keira Glasgow said consumers should check their fridges and make sure they are not eating the affected products.
“There is a risk that if these affected alfalfa sprouts are consumed, you may become ill. Anyone who has consumed alfalfa sprouts should be on the lookout for symptoms, including headache, fever, stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting,” she said.
Only Aussie Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts are available and are being recalled in South Australia.
“Do not eat this particular product and if you have purchased Aussie Sprouts alfalfa sprouts you can return it to the point of purchase or dispose of it,” said Karen Ferres, director of food safety and regulation.
About salmonella
Foods contaminated with Salmonella bacteria generally do not look, smell, or taste spoiled. Anyone can get a Salmonella infection. Infants, children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile.
Anyone who has eaten a recalled product and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctor about their possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria, because special tests are needed to diagnose salmonellosis. Symptoms of a Salmonella infection can mimic other illnesses, often leading to misdiagnosis.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection may include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults are usually sick for four to seven days. In some cases, however, diarrhea can be so severe that patients need to be hospitalized.
Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop serious illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions. Some people become infected with Salmonella without getting sick or showing symptoms. However, they can still transmit the infection to others.
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