Alfalfa sprouts distributed by a Kent-based company are to believed to be the source of a salmonella outbreak that has sickened at least 13 people.
Sprouters Northwest, Inc. is recalling its alfalfa sprout products (alfalfa sprouts, onion sprouts, and salad sprouts) which were distributed in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska in retail stores and through wholesale produce suppliers.
According to a press release from the Washington State Department of Health, the recall affects a variety of sizes, labeled “Alfalfa Sprouts,” or as mixed varieties that contain alfalfa sprouts as an ingredient.
To date, 13 cases of Salmonella Typhimirium infection have been associated with the raw alfalfa sprouts.
Salmonella Typhimiriumis an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy people infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Symptoms usually develop within one to five days after eating contaminated food. Most people get better on their own.
The first cases were reported in August. People have been sickened in Clark, Island, King, Pierce, Snohomish, Thurston, and Whatcom counties. At least two have required hospitalization.
People should not eat any products from Sprouters Northwest that contain alfalfa sprouts, according to DOH officials.
The products are Sprouters Northwest brand and include all lot numbers with a “best by” date of Sept. 17, 2008, or earlier of: 5-ounce alfalfa sprout cups (UPC – 033383701417), 4-ounce alfalfa clamshells (UPC-815098001088), 1-pound bags of alfalfa sprouts (UPC – 079566123508), 2-pound trays of alfalfa sprouts (UPC – 079566123492), 5-ounce salad cups (UPC – 033383702674), 4-ounce salad clamshells (UPC – 815098002061), 5-ounce alfalfa onion sprout cups (UPC – 033383701905), and 4-ounce onion sprout clamshells (UPC – 815098002054).
Questions can be directed to the company at 253-872-0577.
Company officials refused to comment to the Kent Reporter.
For more information about Salmonella, go to: www.doh.wa.gov/EHSPHL/factsheet/salmonel.htm.
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