U.S. health authorities are investigating a multistate Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled broccoli sprouts produced by Evergreen Fresh Sprouts LLC in Idaho.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said 22 infections have been identified in Idaho, Montana, Utah and Washington. Two people have been hospitalised and no deaths have been reported.
Investigators found that all 19 patients interviewed reported eating sprouts before becoming ill, while 17 specifically reported eating broccoli sprouts.
The recalled products were sold in plastic bags and clamshell containers with expiration dates including September 7, 9, 11, 14 and 16.
The FDA and state health authorities said genetic testing found that Salmonella detected in a recalled product matched the strain causing the outbreak.
Consumers, restaurants and retailers have been instructed not to eat, serve or sell the recalled sprouts.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities warned that the products could have reached additional states beyond those where distribution has already been confirmed.
SOURCES:
U.S. Food and Drug Administration — Salmonella outbreak investigation
