A major recall has been issued for various alfalfa sprouts across Australia following a salmonella outbreak that has affected dozens of people. Health authorities are urging consumers to return the products for a full refund and take caution as the recall continues to expand.
The contaminated sprouts, produced by Parilla Fresh, have been linked to at least 44 confirmed cases of food poisoning, with the bacteria identified as Salmonella Havana. The recall covers a variety of alfalfa sprouts, including popular brands like Aussie Sprouts and Hugo’s Alfalfa range. These products were sold in major supermarkets such as Coles, Woolworths, IGA, and some independent grocers, though they were not available in Western Australia or Tasmania.
Details of the Recall
The issue came to light late on Friday, November 7, after authorities discovered the contamination was affecting multiple states. As of now, Queensland has reported 15 cases of food poisoning, with additional cases confirmed across other states. While the risk of severe illness is low for healthy individuals, certain groups, including children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems, are more vulnerable to complications.
“Most people recover with rest and fluids,” said Queensland Chief Health Officer Catherine McDougall to ABC. “But severe cases may require hospital treatment.” Symptoms of salmonella infection—like stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and nausea—can appear anywhere from six hours to three days after exposure, and typically last between four to seven days. If symptoms persist longer or become severe, it’s important to seek medical advice.
The Affected Products
The contaminated sprouts were sold under several different labels, including Aussie Sprouts, Alfalfa Sprouts, Hugo’s Alfalfa Onion & Garlic Sprouts, Hugo’s Trio Sprouts Selection, and Hugo’s Alfalfa & Broccoli Sprouts. Consumers who have purchased any of these products should check the use-by dates, which are up to and including November 20th, 2025. Authorities are urging anyone who bought these products to avoid eating them and return them to the store for a refund.
Why the Concern?
Salmonella is a dangerous bacterial infection that can lead to serious gastrointestinal issues. Because these sprouts are typically eaten raw, they carry a higher risk of bacterial contamination, as cooking doesn’t kill bacteria in the same way. The Food Standards Australia website has been updated with specific guidance urging consumers to avoid the affected products and seek medical help if they feel unwell.
Foodborne illness outbreaks linked to raw sprouts are not new, and this recall is a reminder of the hidden risks associated with consuming raw foods. Sprouts are particularly vulnerable to contamination due to the conditions in which they’re grown, making them a frequent target for recalls.
What Should You Do?
If you’ve recently eaten these sprouts and are experiencing symptoms, the advice is straightforward: drink plenty of fluids, rest, and monitor your symptoms. However, if symptoms become severe—such as experiencing bloody diarrhea or a prolonged fever—do not hesitate to seek medical care. Vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems, should be especially cautious.
As the investigation continues, health officials are urging consumers to act quickly and return any affected products. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety, especially with raw products that might seem harmless but can sometimes carry hidden risks.
