A Wisconsin-based company has issued a recall for its alfalfa sprouts due to potential listeria contamination, prompting concerns about food safety and consumer health.
At a Glance
- Jack and the Green Sprouts Inc. recalls 5-ounce packages of alfalfa sprouts
- Potential listeria contamination detected through routine testing
- Affected products sold in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa
- No illnesses reported, but consumers advised to discard affected products
- Listeria can cause serious infections, especially in vulnerable populations
Recall Details
Jack and the Green Sprouts Inc., based in River Falls, Wisconsin, has announced a recall of its 5-ounce packages of alfalfa sprouts due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The recall affects products with an expiration date of January 29, 2025, and lot number 687. The sprouts were distributed to retailers in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa.
The recall was initiated after routine testing by the state of Minnesota revealed the potential presence of listeria, despite negative results from independent lab tests conducted by the company. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a notice about the recall on February 8, following the company’s announcement on February 7.
Health Risks and Precautions
Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous pathogen that can cause severe health issues, particularly in vulnerable populations. The FDA has emphasized the potential dangers associated with listeria contamination.
“Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women,” the FDA said.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides sobering statistics on the impact of listeriosis in the United States. “An estimated 1,600 people get listeriosis each year, and about 260 die,” the CDC reported.
Consumer Response
Consumers who have purchased the affected alfalfa sprouts are strongly advised to check the packaging for the lot number 687 and UPC 763247198915. If the product matches these identifiers and has expired, it should be discarded immediately. While no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall, the company and health officials are taking a proactive approach to prevent potential outbreaks.
