Berlin Seeds of Millersburg, Ohio, is recalling 950 pounds of Berlin Seeds Alfalfa Sprouting Seed because it may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) and Salmonella. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) posted the company announcement on September 23, 2026. The seed was sold to home gardeners and sprout growers in 44 states, and the company says one illness has been reported directly to it so far.
What’s Being Recalled?
The recall covers Berlin Seeds Alfalfa Sprouting Seed sold in 1/4-pound, 1/2-pound, 1-pound, 5-pound, and 50-pound packages. The smaller sizes come in resealable bags, while the 50-pound size comes in a woven poly bag. The 5-pound and 50-pound packages carry lot code SAL2-24JB on the bottom right corner of the label. The 1/4-pound, 1/2-pound, and 1-pound bags have no lot code, so all of those sizes are included. The seed was sold at the company’s retail store in Millersburg and through its website from February 13, 2026 to August 23, 2026.
Why Was This Product Recalled?
The company’s seed supplier traced the seed to a sprout grower whose finished sprouts are part of an FDA investigation into a multistate outbreak of E. coli and Salmonella infections. The supplier also reported that a water sample from one of its alfalfa seed lots tested positive for E. coli. STEC can cause bloody diarrhea. In some cases, it leads to a dangerous kidney condition that can be fatal, especially for young children and older adults. Salmonella can cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, and adults over 65 face a higher risk of serious illness.
What Should You Do?
Stop using the recalled seed immediately. Do not sprout it, plant it, or give it away, and throw out any sprouts already grown from it. Seal the seed in a bag before putting it in the trash, then clean and sanitize any jars, trays, or surfaces it touched. To arrange a replacement, contact Berlin Seeds at 877-464-0892, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern. Anyone who feels ill after eating the sprouts should contact a healthcare provider.
