The FDA and CDC are investigating a multistate outbreak of E. coli and Salmonella tied to alfalfa sprouts, a common but easy-to-overlook sandwich and salad topping. As of the agencies’ latest update, 55 people across 15 states have gotten sick, and the recalled sprouts may still be sitting in home refrigerators or on restaurant sandwich lines.
Key Points
- 55 confirmed illnesses across 15 states: 46 E. coli infections, 7 Salmonella infections, and 2 people infected with both
- 4 hospitalizations, no deaths reported as of the latest update
- Recalled brands are Calco and Everything Sprouts, with Everything Sprouts, LLC issuing a formal recall on August 22, 2026
- Affected lot numbers include 222, 223, 225, 226, and 230, across standalone alfalfa sprouts, Crunchy Protein Sprout Mix, and Zesty Garlic Mix
How the Outbreak Was Traced
According to the CDC’s outbreak page, illnesses began as early as May 31, 2026, with the most recent reported onset on August 8. The recalled sprouts were distributed between May 27 and August 21, 2026, with confirmed retail distribution in Minnesota and Wisconsin, though officials note the supply chain may extend further, which would explain cases turning up across 15 states. The investigation remains open, and both agencies say the case count could still grow as more illnesses are reported and traced back to the same growing or processing source.
What To Do If You Have Them
The CDC’s guidance is direct: “Do not eat any recalled alfalfa sprouts. Throw them away or return them,” and wash any surfaces or containers that may have touched them “using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.” That includes checking the produce drawer for loose sprouts as well as any pre-made sandwiches, wraps, or salads from a deli or grocery prepared-foods counter that may have used them as a garnish, since sprouts are frequently added without being called out on a menu or label.
Anyone experiencing severe symptoms — a high fever alongside diarrhea, bloody stools, or signs of dehydration — should seek medical attention right away and mention possible sprout exposure to their provider, since E. coli and Salmonella infections can look similar to other stomach bugs early on. Because alfalfa sprouts show up on sandwiches at delis, cafés, and grocery hot bars without always being listed as an ingredient, it’s worth asking before you order if sprouts have been on the menu recently in your area.
Sprouts in general carry a higher food-safety risk than most produce because they’re grown in warm, humid conditions that also favor bacterial growth, and the seeds themselves can carry contamination that survives rinsing at home. Federal health officials generally recommend that people with weakened immune systems, young children, older adults, and pregnant people avoid raw sprouts altogether, outbreak or not.
