Woolworths Recall: Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Alfalfa Sprouts

Woolworths Recall Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Alfalfa Sprouts

Woolworths Recall: Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Alfalfa Sprouts

A nationwide health alert has been issued in Australia after dozens of people fell ill due to an unusual strain of salmonella linked to alfalfa sprouts sold in major supermarkets, including Coles, Woolworths, and IGA. Health authorities confirmed that at least 44 people across the country have been infected, prompting an immediate recall of several Parilla Fresh products.

Also Read:

The affected items include 125-gram packets of alfalfa-based sprouts under brands such as Aussie Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts , Hugo’s Alfalfa Onion & Garlic Sprouts , Hugo’s Alfalfa & Radish Sprouts , Hugo’s Alfalfa & Onion Sprouts , Hugo’s Salad Sprouts , Hugo’s Alfalfa & Broccoli Sprouts , and Hugo’s Trio Sprouts Selection . These products carry use-by dates up to and including 20 November 2025 and were sold nationwide.

Authorities from New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland confirmed the infections, with 18 cases in NSW , nine in Victoria , and 15 in Queensland . The outbreak led to a joint investigation by interstate health departments and food regulators to trace the source of contamination.

Dr. Keira Glasgow, director of the One Health Branch at NSW Health, urged consumers to immediately check their fridges and avoid eating any of the recalled products. She explained that salmonella infection symptoms could appear anywhere between six to seventy-two hours after consumption. Common symptoms include fever, headache, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting .

While most people recover within a week with rest and proper hydration, Glasgow warned that infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness. In such cases, antibiotic treatment or hospitalisation may be required.

The recall, coordinated by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) , advised consumers not to consume any of the listed sprouts and to return them to the store of purchase for a full refund . Health officials also recommended that anyone who suspects they’ve eaten the contaminated products and are feeling unwell should seek medical advice immediately .

Salmonella contamination in fresh produce isn’t new, but what makes this case stand out is the unusual strain identified by authorities — one not commonly seen in Australia. Investigations are still underway to determine the exact point of contamination in the production and distribution chain.

As supermarkets like Woolworths, Coles, and IGA work closely with suppliers and regulators to remove the affected batches, health officials are emphasizing the importance of food safety vigilance. Until more information emerges, Australians are being urged to handle sprouts carefully and ensure any recalled products are safely discarded.

The incident serves as a strong reminder that even seemingly healthy foods like sprouts can pose unexpected health risks if contamination occurs somewhere along the supply chain.

Read More:

Post a Comment

0 Comments