There’s a new food recall in Australia that has some people on edge. Alfalfa sprouts, a popular ingredient in salads and sandwiches, are being pulled from supermarket shelves due to concerns over Salmonella contamination. If you’ve bought these recently, it’s time to double-check your fridge.
Which Products Are Affected By This Recall ?
The recall affects multiple varieties of alfalfa sprouts sold by Flowerdale Farm. These products include: Alfalfa Salad Sprouts 120g, Plain Alfalfa Sprouts 120g, Alfalfa Radish Sprouts 120g, Alfalfa Broccoli Sprouts 120g, Alfalfa Garlic Sprouts 120g, Alfalfa Trio Sprouts 120g, Alfalfa Onion Sprouts 120g and Gourmet Sprouts 125g, details 9News.
The affected items all have use-by dates up to and including 20 November 2025. These sprouts were sold at major retailers like Woolworths, Coles, and IGA, so check the labels of any products you’ve purchased recently.
Why Is This Happening?
Alfalfa sprouts are naturally high-risk for foodborne illnesses, particularly Salmonella and E. coli, because of the conditions in which they are grown. The warm, moist environment that sprouts need to grow can also encourage the growth of harmful bacteria. This is why even small amounts of contaminated sprouts can lead to illness, especially when eaten raw.
Although it’s not uncommon for sprouts to be linked to foodborne outbreaks, it’s always a shock when it hits home. The recall came after testing revealed Salmonella contamination in batches of these sprouts, prompting health authorities to act fast.
What to Do If You Have These Products
If you’ve bought any of the recalled products, don’t eat them. Even if you’ve already eaten some, keep an eye out for symptoms. Typical Salmonella symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting, which usually show up between 6 to 72 hours after consumption. It’s especially important for young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and anyone with a weakened immune system to be cautious.
To be safe, return the sprouts to the store for a full refund or dispose of them properly. And of course, wash your hands and any surfaces they came into contact with.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
While food recalls are always concerning, it’s good to remember that these steps are taken to protect public health. Sprouts may be a tasty addition to your meals, but if you’re unsure about the safety of any product, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Be sure to stay updated on future recalls, and always check your food labels carefully.
