News Release
California Department of Health Services

State Health Department Warns Consumers Not To Eat "Salad Cosmo" Brand Alfalfa Sprouts

Company Initiates Voluntary Recall of Product Distributed to Retail Stores and Restaurants in California, Washington, Oregon and Nevada

SACRAMENTO - The California Department of Health Services (CDHS) today warned consumers not to eat Salad Cosmo brand alfalfa sprouts because these products may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause serious illness. The manufacturer is voluntarily recalling the product after routine testing detected Salmonella in alfalfa seeds.

"Consumers, especially infants, young children and the elderly, are susceptible to serious infection when exposed to Salmonella," said Kevin Reilly, acting state public health officer and deputy director of CDHS' Prevention Services. "Today's warning is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of foods sold in California."

No illnesses have been reported from these products, but alfalfa sprouts have previously been linked to outbreaks of Salmonella and E. coli 0157 infections.

Salad Cosmo USA Corp. is recalling alfalfa sprouts distributed to retail stores and restaurants throughout California, Washington, Oregon and Nevada. The recalled alfalfa sprouts are packaged in 2.5-ounce plastic containers and 1-pound plastic bags. Both packages are labeled "Salad Cosmo Alfalfa Sprouts" and have the following production codes: 0519, 0520, 0521, 0522, 0523, 0524, 0525 and 0526. The codes are printed on the front label of the 2.5-ounce packages and on the left side of the 1-pound bags near the product name.

CDHS has been warning the public for more than 10 years about the risk of eating sprouts because:

• Sprouts usually are eaten raw, with no additional treatment (i.e., cooking), which eliminates bacteria that can cause disease.
• Conditions required for sprout growing are ideal for rapid bacterial growth.
• Consumers may unknowingly be exposed to sprouts on sandwiches or salads purchased at restaurants and delicatessens.

Salmonellosis is an acute bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Symptoms usually develop within one to four days after eating contaminated food. Most cases resolve without the need for medical attention. However, some individuals with salmonellosis develop serious illness that can lead to hospitalization.

Consumers who purchased these products should immediately discard them or return them to the point of purchase for a refund. Consumers with questions may contact Salad Cosmo USA Corp. at 707-678-6633.