Clover Sprout Recall Affects Four States

Photo: Suzannah Skelton / iStockphoto

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Sprouters Northwest, Inc. of Kent, Wash., is recalling all of its clover and clover mix products because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The recalled clover products were distributed in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska in retail chains and through wholesale distribution.

The recall follows a similar recall of organic alfalfa sprouts for salmonella about a week ago.

Ingesting salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps that set in within three days and can last up to seven. While most people recover without treatment, some need to be hospitalized (at least 23% of those infected in the current outbreak have been hospitalized, according to the CDC) and those with weakened immune systems who aren't properly treated may die.

Consumers who have purchased these clover based products are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 253-872-0577 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-11 a.m.

The withdrawal includes the products listed below, with a "best by" date of 1/16/11 or earlier:

• 4oz. containers of Clover sprouts (UPC 8 15098 00201 6)
• 5oz. containers of Clover sprouts (UPC 0 33383 70235 3)
• 1 lb. bags of Clover (UPC 0 79566 12351 5)
• 2 lb. trays of Clover (UPC 0 79566 12362 1)
• 4 oz. containers of Clover Onion (UPC 0 79566 12361 4)
• 5oz. containers of Clover Onion (UPC 0 79566 12361 4)
• 4 oz. containers of Deli sprouts (UPC 8 79566 12305 4)
• 5oz. containers of Deli sprouts (UPC 0 33383 70267 4)
• 4oz. containers of Spicy sprouts (UPC 8 15098 00202 3)
• 4 oz. containers of Brocco sandwich sprouts (UPC 8 15098 00028 9)
  
  

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Since 1996, there have been at least 30 reported outbreaks of foodborne illness from raw or lightly cooked sprouts, according to the FDA. The FDA recommends these three tips for avoiding illness from sprouts:

• Avoid sprouts of any kind (including alfalfa, clover, radish, and mung bean sprouts) if you are elderly, pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or are preparing food for children.

• Cook sprouts thoroughly to reduce the risk of illness.

• Ask that raw sprouts not be added to your food, and check for sprouts on sandwiches and salads ordered at restaurants before eating them.

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