Aussies have been urged to throw out an infected salad product sold at major supermarkets over fears of people falling ill with a strain of salmonella.
Food Standards Australia says Aussie Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts 125g have been linked to 44 cases of salmonella infection.
There are fears the product, sold at Woolworths, Coles, IGA and other independent grocers, is infected with microbial contamination.
According to NSW Health, 18 people in NSW have fallen ill after eating the sprouts.
NSW Health director Keira Glasgow told Australians to be vigilant for symptoms.
‘Anyone who has consumed alfalfa sprouts should be on the lookout for symptoms, which include: headache; fever; stomach cramps; diarrhoea; nausea; and vomiting,’ she said.
‘Most people recover within a week by having lots of rest and drinking plenty of fluids such as water or oral hydration drinks from a pharmacy.’
Symptoms start six to 72 hours after exposure to the bacteria and generally last about a week but can be more serious for vulnerable individuals.
Aussie Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts 125g (pictured) have been linked to a strain of salmonella
Shoppers have been warned about Aussie Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts and urged to throw them out
Infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of severe illness.
‘These people may need antibiotics from their doctor or, in more severe cases, hospitalisation,’ Ms Glasgow said.
The affected alfalfa sprouts were sold in NSW, Queensland, Victoria, Northern Territory, the ACT and South Australia.
The products were all sold in 125g varieties with use-by dates up to and including November 20.
The impacted products include:
•Hugo’s Alfalfa Onion & Garlic Sprouts 125g
•Hugo’s Alfalfa Radish Sprouts 125g
•Hugo’s Alfalfa Onion Sprouts 125g
•Hugo’s Salad Sprouts 125g
•Hugo’s Alfalfa Broccoli Sprouts 125g
•Hugo’s Trio Sprouts Selection 125g
‘There is a risk that if these affected alfalfa sprouts are consumed you could become ill,’ Ms Glasgow said.
NSW Health said it was working with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to investigate the problem.
Anyone needing non-urgent medical advice should call their local GP, healthdirect for free (24 hours) on 1800 022 222 or speak to their local pharmacist.
