Sprouters Northwest Salmonella Typhimurium Outbreak
Sprouters Northwest, a Kent, WA company, has recalled alfalfa sprout product and stopped further distribution. Health authorities have linked an outbreak of 13 illnesses - nine in Washington State and four in Oregon - to the company’s product. Sprouters Northwest has had to recall product before; in 2004 another Salmonella outbreak was tied to their sprouts.
Washington State Health authorities have said that people have been sickened in Clark, Island, King, Pierce, Snohomish, Thurston, and Whatcom counties. At lease two have required hospitalization.
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) sprouts are the number two culprit in produce related outbreaks, second only to leafy greens. People are not always aware of eating sprouts, as they are often added to salads or sandwiches.
Consumers who have purchased Sprouters Northwest sprouts should return them to the store of purchase or discard them. Anyone in Washington or Oregon who may have eaten sprouts at home or in a restaurant environment and is experiencing the symptoms of salmonella infection - nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea - is encouraged to visit their health care practitioner and get tested. Keep in mind that salmonella has a 6-72 hour incubation period.