Nationwide, alfalfa sprouts have been pulled from store shelves due to concerns about potential salmonella contamination, following reports of illness among several consumers.

This recall is a result of a collaborative inquiry by health and food safety officials into a spike in a rare form of salmonella infection.

Parilla Fresh, the company at the center of the issue, has opted to recall the product voluntarily as the investigation continues and further testing is conducted.

In the course of the investigation, health authorities have identified at least 44 cases of the unusual salmonella strain across the country, with 18 cases reported in New South Wales.

Keira Glasgow, Director of NSW Health’s One Health Branch, advised consumers to inspect their refrigerators and refrain from consuming the affected sprouts.

“There is a risk that if these affected alfalfa sprouts are consumed you could become ill,” Glasgow said.

Varieties affected are: Aussie Sprouts Alfalfa Sprouts 125g, 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 and Hugo’s Trio Sprouts Selection 125g.

They have use by dates up to and including 20/11/25.

The products have been sold at Woolworths and Coles in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and the Northern Territory.

Independent grocers including IGA in NSW; Harris Farm in NSW, the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria; Sydney Markets in NSW and Melbourne Markets in Victoria have also sold them,

“Anyone who has consumed alfalfa sprouts should be on the lookout for symptoms, which include: headache; fever; stomach cramps; diarrhoea; nausea; and vomiting,” Glasgow said.

Symptoms usually start six to 72 hours after exposure to the bacteria and usually last for four to seven days but they can sometimes last a lot longer.

“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,” Glasgow said.

“While anyone can gets almonella infection, 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.”

Consumers should return the product to the where they bought it for a full refund.

You should contact your doctor if symptoms last longer than a few days, diarrhoea is severe or bloody, you are at risk for severe salmonella (young children, older people, and people with poor immune systems) or you are worried.