Multi-country outbreak of Salmonella Bovismorbificans ST377 infections linked to the consumption of alfalfa sprouted seeds

Epidemiological and microbiological evidence identified alfalfa sprouted seeds traded from Italy as the primary vehicle of infection. Microbiological evidence included the detection of the outbreak strain in water samples collected during alfalfa sprouted seed harvesting in the Netherlands and Northern Ireland (UK). A Finnish sprouted seed producer was epidemiologically linked to cases in Finland.

Traceability investigations in Italy identified a common seed supplier in India, suggesting this area as a potential origin of seed contamination. The outbreak strain presumably started circulating in Europe in October 2025 via two alfalfa seed consignments, before being distributed across multiple countries.

Control measures included the withdrawal of the implicated consignments, recalls of related products, cessation of production and the destruction of suspected products. Following these interventions, case notifications decreased. However, further infections may occur until the source of contamination is fully identified and controlled, particularly because sprouted seeds can be sold as ready-to-eat products, representing a concern for microbial food safety.

Based on available information, the risk of infections is assessed as low-to-moderate for people in EU/EEA countries who frequently consume sprouted seeds.

Public health authorities are encouraged to interview new cases, sequence isolates, and share information in EpiPulse. Food safety authorities are encouraged to investigate the role of the environment in seed contamination. Seed producers should implement appropriate measures to minimise the contamination risk. Sprouted seed producers should implement adequate food safety management systems to ensure safe products reach the market.