Nationwide recall of alfalfa sprouts linked to ‘unusual strain’ of salmonella after dozens infected across Australia | Health

After at least 44 people across Australia contracted an unusual strain of salmonella, health officials issued a nationwide recall of alfalfa sprouts and urged people not to eat the affected produce.

The recall applied to 125 gram packages Sprouts produced by Parilla FreshIncludes: Aussie Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts, Hugo’s Alfalfa Onion and Garlic Sprouts, Hugo’s Alfalfa and Radish Sprouts, Hugo’s Alfalfa and Onion Sprouts, Hugo’s Salad Sprouts, Hugo’s Alfalfa and Broccoli Sprouts, and Hugo’s Selection of Trio Sprouts.

The notice applies to products sold in supermarkets and grocery stores nationally with an expiration date of 20 November 2025.

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A joint investigation was conducted by interstate health and food regulatory authorities following an increase in a particular salmonella infection.

Health officials from each state said at least 44 people nationwide were found to have contracted the “unusual strain of salmonella”; these included 18 in New South Wales, 9 in Victoria and 15 in Queensland.

health authorities It said the affected alfalfa sprouts were sold in numerous supermarkets, including Coles, Woolworths, IGA and other independent grocery stores and stores in NSW, Queensland, Victoria, the Northern Territory, the Australian Capital Territory and South Australia.

Keira Glasgow, director of NSW Health’s One Health Branch, said consumers should check their refrigerators and avoid eating any of the affected products that could make them sick.

“Anyone who consumes alfalfa sprouts should be aware of symptoms such as headache, fever, stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting,” he said.

Symptoms usually begin 6-72 hours after exposure and can last up to a week.

“Most people recover within a week with plenty of rest and drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or oral hydration drinks from the pharmacy,” Glasgow said.

“While anyone can become infected with Salmonella, infants, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe disease.

“These people may need to get antibiotics from their doctor or, in more severe cases, be hospitalized.”

An investigation is ongoing involving authorities in different regions.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand’s recall notice advised: “Consumers should not eat this product. Consumers should return the product(s) to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers concerned for their health should seek medical advice.”