J.H. Caldwell and Sons Inc. of Maywood, Calif., has recalled Always Fresh and Alfa One alfalfa sprouts due to possible contamination with Salmonella. The recalled sprouts were distributed to wholesale distributors and retail grocery stores in California, including Beach Market, KV Mart and Superior Warehouse, and to Trader Joes grocery stores in California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon and Washington.

The J.H. Caldwell and Sons recalled alfalfa sprouts are labeled Always Fresh and Alfa One. The products are packaged in 4 ounce and 5 ounce containers and in plastic bags. The recalled product codes are 202182, 202192, 202202, 202212, 202222, 202232, 202242, 202252, 202262 and 202272. The code is printed on the side of the containers and on the back of the plastic bag.

Sprouts have been the source of a number of Salmonella outbreaks. Conditions required for sprout growing are ideal for rapid bacterial growth. Also, sprouts usually are eaten raw, with no additional treatment such as cooking which eliminates bacteria that can cause disease.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Consumers who have eaten this product and are experiencing the above symptoms should consult their health care provider. Consumers who are diagnosed with Salmonella infections (salmonellosis) should contact a Salmonella lawyer.

Posted March 2008.

Labels: alfalfa sprout recall, Trader Joes Salmonella