Health authorities have issued a national recall of Alfalfa Sprouts, urging people not to eat the affected products, after 44 people across Australia contracted the unusual pilonella.
The recall is applied to the 125G packet of Sprouts made by grilling freshwhich includes: Aussie Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts, Hugo’s Alfalfa Sprouts, Hugo’s Subal Sprouts, Hugo’s Alfalfa & Hugo Sprouts Pelection.
The announcement applies to products sold in supermarkets and grocers nationally, with use-by dates until 20 November 2025.
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This follows a joint investigation by the Interstate Health and Food Regulatory Authority following an additional salmonella infection.
At least 44 people have been identified with “unusual weight of salmonella”, including 18 people in New South Wales, nine in Queensland, health authorities from each state said.
Health Authorities Said the affected alfalfa sprouts sold in many supermarkets including Coles, Iga and other territories in NSW, Cequesland, Victoria Capital Territory and Southernia Australia.
Keira Glasgow, the director of a health branch of Health Health, said that consumers should check their refrigerator and avoid eating any affected products, which could make them sick.
“Anyone who consumes Alfalfa sprouts should be on the lookout for symptoms, which include: headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting,” he said.
Symptoms usually begin 6-72 hours after exposure, and can last up to a week.
“Most people get better within a week with plenty of rest and drinking plenty of fluids such as water or an oral hydration drink from a pharmacy,” says Glasgow.
“While anyone can get salmonella infection, babies, the elderly and people with poor immune systems are more likely to get seriously ill.
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“These people may need antibiotics from their doctor or, in more severe cases, hospital.”
An investigation is underway by authorities across jurisdictions.
The noted recall from food standards Australia New Zealand advises: “Consumers should not eat this product. Any consumer should look after their health.”