Caldwell Fresh Foods, of Maywood, CA, has recalled all alfalfa sprouts manufactured under the Caldwell Fresh Foods, Nature’s Choice, and California Exotics brands, because the alfalfa sprouts may be contaminated with Salmonella. Caldwell alfalfa sprouts have been associated with an outbreak of Salmonella newport that has sickened more than 20 people in 10 states, including 11 people in California. The latest known illness is May 2, 2010; many of those who have become sick reported eating raw alfalfa sprouts. There have been no deaths reported, but 4 cases have been hospitalized.
The recalled alfalfa sprouts are labelled and packaged as follows:
Caldwell Fresh Foods – 4-ounce plastic cups and one pound plastic bags, and 2-pound and 5 pound plastic bags in cardboard boxes with sticker affixed with the printed words Caldwell Fresh Foods.
Nature’s Choice – 4-ounce plastic cups
California Exotics brands – 5-ounce plastic clamshell containers
The alfalfa sprouts were distributed to a variety of restaurants, delicatessens and retailers nationwide. In California, the products are sold at Kings Super Market, Numero Uno Stores, Cárdenas Markets, Trader Joe’s Stores, Gonzalez Northgate Markets, Wal-Mart stores Jons Markets, and Canton Foods. Caldwell Fresh Foods alfalfa sprouts not affected by the recall will have a bright, round, green sticker affixed to the lids and labels. Consumers that have purchased alfalfa sprouts manufactured by Caldwell Fresh Foods are urged to return them to the place of purchase for refund or dispose of them.