The FDA and CDC are investigating a multistate salmonella outbreak linked to broccoli sprouts, with 22 confirmed cases across four states and two hospitalizations. Traceback points to Evergreen Fresh Sprouts in Moyie Springs, Idaho, which recalled broccoli sprouts on Sept. 4 after a Montana sample tested positive. Investigators found that of 19 patients interviewed, all had eaten sprouts and 17 had specifically eaten broccoli sprouts. The FDA urges consumers, restaurants and retailers not to eat, serve or sell the recalled product and to seek medical care if symptoms develop.
FDA Investigates Multistate Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Broccoli Sprouts; 22 Cases Reported
FILE PHOTO: Signage is seen outside of the Food and Drug Administration headquarters in White Oak, Maryland, U.S., August 29, 2020. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are investigating a multistate outbreak of salmonella infections tied to broccoli sprouts. To date, 22 confirmed cases across four states have been reported, including two hospitalizations; no deaths have been reported.
Details of the Investigation
- Traceback information identifies Evergreen Fresh Sprouts of Moyie Springs, Idaho, as the common grower of broccoli sprouts eaten by affected people.
- Evergreen Fresh Sprouts initiated a recall on Sept. 4 after a sample collected and tested by Montana state officials returned a positive result for salmonella.
- Investigators interviewed 19 patients; all reported eating sprouts and 17 specifically reported eating broccoli sprouts prior to becoming ill.
- The FDA is advising consumers, restaurants and retailers not to eat, serve, or sell recalled broccoli sprouts produced by Evergreen Fresh Sprouts.
Symptoms and Who Is at Risk
Salmonella is a bacterium that causes foodborne illness, typically producing diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. Most healthy people recover without treatment, but young children, older adults, pregnant people and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of severe illness and may require medical care.
What Consumers Should Do
- If you have recalled broccoli sprouts, do not eat them—throw them away or return them to the place of purchase.
- If you develop symptoms consistent with salmonella infection after eating sprouts, seek medical advice and tell your provider about the possible exposure.
- Restaurants and retailers should remove recalled product from inventory and follow FDA guidance for handling and disposal.
About Broccoli Sprouts
Broccoli sprouts are germinated broccoli seeds, typically grown in water for four to six days and eaten whole. Like other raw sprouts, they can support bacterial growth if contaminated, which is why recalls and advisories are issued when contamination is detected.
(Reporting by Christy Santhosh in Bengaluru; Editing by Shailesh Kuber)
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