Jonathan’s Alfalfa Sprout Recall: Salmonella Food Poisoning Risk

An alfalfa sprout recall has been announced for some Jonathan’s Sprouts products after testing found signs of salmonella contamination. 

The Jonathan’s Sprouts recall was announced on April 19 by the FDA after contamination was found through routine USDA laboratory sampling. The sprouts were distributed to stores in Delaware, Maryland, New England, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

Although there have been no reports of salmonella poisoning linked to the sprouts, consuming the recalled sprouts could lead to symptoms like high fever, persistent diarrhea, dehydration, vomiting, severe abdominal cramps and pain.

The recall affects 4oz packages of Jonathan’s Alfalfa Sprouts, Alfalfa with Radish Sprouts, Gourmet Sprouts, Alfalfa with Dill Sprouts and 8 oz packages of Alfalfa Sprouts; all of which have a sell-by date of 4/23. Also included in the recall are Jonathan’s 5 lbs. Bulk Alfalfa in waxed 18” x 11” cardboard cartons – code 397. None of Jonathan’s organic sprouts are affected by the recall.

The recalled sprouts were sold at A&P, Grand Union, Stop & Shop, Shaws, Hannaford, Donnelans, Foodmaster, Truccis, and Roche Brothers stores.

The recall comes days after the FDA issued a warning letter to Jonathan’s Sprouts Inc. regarding claims it was making about the health benefits associated with its sprouts. According to the FDA, the Rochester, Massachusetts-based company promoted many of its products as cancer-fighting agents and as being capable of lowering cholesterol.

Federal regulations limit the health benefit and nutrition claims that can be made about foods to those that have been authorized by regulation. To make such claims, the FDA told the company that its sprouts would have to qualify as a new drug and be treated accordingly.

Salmonella is a type of bacteria that attacks the gastrointestinal tract, causing mild to severe food poisoning. For most healthy adults, symptoms of food poisoning from salmonella typically resolve after a few days or weeks. However, young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems have an increased risk of suffering severe food poisoning after ingesting the bacteria. If not properly treated, some cases of salmonella food poisoning can lead to hospitalization, dehydration or death.

Any consumers who have purchased sprouts affected by the recall should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Any consumers with questions can contact the company at 508-763-2577.