Multistate outbreak linked to Minnesota alfalfa sprouts sickens dozens; two hospitalizations

Health officials in Minnesota and Wisconsin warn of a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and Salmonella linked to alfalfa sprouts produced by Everything Sprouts and sold under Calco and Everything Sprouts labels. As of Aug. 8, 23 Minnesotans have fallen ill, with two hospitalizations and no deaths, while Wisconsin investigators have identified 18 additional cases and other states are reporting illnesses. Consumers are urged not to eat sprouts from these brands and to discard them, as authorities coordinate with the CDC, FDA, and state partners to determine the scope and source of contamination. The sprouts were sold to restaurants and grocery stores, with illnesses presenting as stomach cramps and diarrhea; STEC can cause bloody stools and, in some cases, hemolytic uremic syndrome, while Salmonella symptoms typically include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. The investigation is expected to grow as more cases are identified, and legal commentary notes ongoing scrutiny of production practices and FDA guidance. Public health officials advise seeking medical care for suspected STEC or Salmonella infections and caution against antibiotic treatment for STEC-related diarrhea.