Multinational Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Sprout Seeds from Italy
In a troubling development, a Salmonella outbreak spanning multiple countries has resulted in 50 confirmed cases, with sprout seeds from Italy emerging as a primary suspect.
The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reports that this outbreak is impacting at least six European nations, including the United Kingdom. Notably, Ireland, Finland, and the UK have documented cases of Salmonella Bovismorbificans, a genetically similar strain, infecting adults primarily between January and April 2026.
The majority of the affected individuals are women, and at least five have been hospitalized, underscoring the seriousness of this health crisis.
Finland Takes Notice
Finland has become a focal point of the investigation, with the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) noting that 32 cases have been confirmed in the country. The patients, whose ages range from 17 to 77, have no documented travel history, suggesting local consumption of contaminated food. Of those infected, 23 are women, with the average age landing at 45.
In both the UK and Ireland, specific batches of Good4U Super Sprouts Super Greens have been recalled over concerns of Salmonella contamination. These packaged sprouts, weighing 60 grams, bear expiration dates of April 22, 26, 29, and 30, as well as May 3, 2026.
Since the beginning of the year, 15 infections have been reported across England and Wales. Amy Douglas, a lead epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), commented, “We are working closely with public health agencies to investigate this international Salmonella outbreak linked to sprouted seeds. Currently, the risk to the UK public remains low, thanks to a voluntary recall of the affected product. If you have purchased any of the recalled items, please do not consume them. It’s crucial to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water if you’ve handled these sprouted seeds.”
In Ireland, both the Food Safety Authority and the HSE National Health Protection Office are actively investigating the outbreak, having confirmed three cases of Salmonella Bovismorbificans linked to sprouted seeds. In addition, four other countries have identified 10 cases with related Salmonella isolates, although further details regarding food and travel exposure remain elusive as investigations continue.
According to a Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) notice, the suspected contaminated seeds include alfalfa, clover, broccoli, and radish, all imported from Italy.
Recurring Concerns
This isn’t the first time that issues around sprouted seeds have raised alarms. An audit conducted by the Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG Sante) in May and June 2025 uncovered that unregistered companies in Italy were involved in seed production, alongside a glaring lack of regulatory enforcement. In response, Italian officials have committed to enhancing regional databases, focusing on operators involved in seed production. This initiative aims to bolster the planning of risk-based controls.
Historically, from 2023 to 2025, another significant outbreak linked to sprouted seeds saw 509 confirmed cases in 10 countries, predominantly in Northern Europe. Finland recorded 94 cases, Sweden 110, and Norway 257, although none involved Salmonella Bovismorbificans. Investigative efforts at that time, utilizing whole genome sequencing and food tracing, revealed a supplier in Italy sourcing seeds from three local growers.
The current outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in food safety systems and the need for vigilant oversight in the supply chain. As authorities continue their investigations, the hope remains that swift action can prevent further illness and protect public health.