Health authorities are advising Australians to throw away an infected product which so far has been linked to 44 people nationwide contracting an unusual strain of salmonella.
Food Standards Australia say anyone who bought Aussie Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts 125g to not consume the produce on fears it has been sold with microbial contamination and could cause salmonella-related illnesses if eaten.
These were sold at Woolworths, Coles, IGA and other independent grocers.
According to NSW Health, at least 44 people nationwide have been identified with the unusual strain of salmonella, including 18 people in NSW.
Symptoms usually start six to 72 hours after exposure to the bacteria and usually last for 4-7 days, however symptoms can sometimes last a lot longer.
NSW Health director one health branch Keira Glasgow urged Australians to watch 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.”
However, infants, the elderly and people with poor immune systems are more likely to have 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.
These products were all sold in 125g varieties with use-by dates up to and including 20 November 2025.
The impacted products include the following with all use by dates up to and including November 20, 2025:
•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
Ms Glasgow said consumers should check their fridge and ensure they do not consume the listed products.
“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 and other relative jurisdictions to investigate the issue.
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.
Read related topics:ColesWoolworths
