More than 40 people across Australia have become ill after eating alfalfa sprouts.
The salmonella outbreak has affected at least 44 people across the country, 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 authorities into an increase in salmonella cases.
Product recall
The company has issued a recall while the investigation continues and further testing is carried out. Hugo's Brand: Alfalfa, Onion and Garlic Sprouts; Alfalfa radish sprouts; Alfalfa and onion sprouts; Lettuce sprouts; Alfalfa and broccoli sprouts; and Trio Sprouts Selection, as well as Australian sprouts and alfalfa sprouts.
According to the New South Wales (NSW) Department of Health, the affected alfalfa sprouts were sold in many supermarkets including Coles, Woolworths, IGA and other independent grocers and stores in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, the Northern Territory, the Australian Capital Territory and South Australia. They are supplied in packages of 125 grams with an expiration date until November 20 inclusive.
Flowerdale Farm in Victoria has recalled various sprout products sold in the state's fruit and vegetable stores.
Kira Glasgow, NSW director of health, said consumers should check their refrigerators to ensure they are not eating contaminated food.
“There is a risk that if you eat these affected alfalfa sprouts, you may become ill. Anyone who has consumed alfalfa sprouts should watch for symptoms, which include headache, fever, stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting,” she said.
Only Australian alfalfa sprouts are available and are being recalled in South Australia.
“Do not eat this particular product, and if you purchased Aussie Sprouts alfalfa sprouts, you can return them to the point of sale or throw them away,” said Karen Ferres, director of food safety and regulation.
About salmonella
Food contaminated with salmonella bacteria usually does not look spoiled, does not smell or taste. Anyone can get salmonellosis. Infants, children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile.
Anyone who has eaten any of the recalled products and experiences symptoms of salmonella infection should seek medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctors about possible exposure to salmonella bacteria because special tests are needed to diagnose salmonellosis. Symptoms of Salmonella infection can mimic other diseases, often leading to misdiagnosis.
Symptoms of a salmonella infection may include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever for 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults usually get sick for four to seven days. However, in some cases, diarrhea can be so severe that patients require hospitalization.
Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop severe illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions. Some people become infected with salmonella without getting sick or showing any symptoms. However, they can still transmit the infection to other people.
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