CDC, FDA End Broccoli Sprout Salmonella Outbreak

Officials declared the outbreak over after 34 illnesses across six states were linked to contaminated broccoli sprouts and microgreens.

Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Organic Food

CDC, FDA End Broccoli Sprout Salmonella Outbreak

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The CDC and FDA declared an end to a Salmonella Bovismorbificans outbreak linked to broccoli sprouts and microgreens that sickened 34 people across six states. The sprouts were grown from a contaminated seed lot imported from New Zealand.

Why it matters

The outbreak highlights how contaminated seeds can reach consumers through both retail and online channels, affecting households nationwide. Officials recalled affected sprouts and seed products to reduce further exposure.

Officials confirmed 34 illnesses across six states, with three people hospitalized and 29 of 30 interviewed reporting sprout or microgreen consumption. CDC estimates many additional infections went undetected, so the full scope of the outbreak remains unknown.

The players

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The CDC is the U.S. federal agency responsible for tracking disease outbreaks and investigating public health threats, including foodborne illness.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The FDA is the federal agency that regulates food safety in the United States, overseeing recalls and testing of contaminated products.

The details

Evergreen Fresh Sprouts-brand broccoli sprout samples tested positive for Salmonella and matched the outbreak strain, and affected products are past expiration and recalled. Recalled broccoli seeds, including a one-pound Gardeners Basics pouch, were sold nationwide through company websites and major online retailers.

Illnesses began between July 7 and Sept. 11, 2026.
CDC and FDA declared the outbreak over on Nov. 5, 2026.

Health Landscape

Sprout-linked Salmonella outbreaks have recurred in recent years as produce grown from imported seed moves through domestic supply chains with limited visibility. This outbreak reflects that same pattern, in which contamination at the seed stage can reach consumers across multiple states before detection.

Check your refrigerator and pantry for broccoli sprouts, microgreens, or broccoli seeds from Evergreen Fresh Sprouts or Gardeners Basics and discard any affected products. Anyone who recently ate sprouts or microgreens and developed diarrhea, fever, or stomach cramps should contact a health care provider.

The takeaway

Rinse sprouts and microgreens under running water and keep them refrigerated, since contamination can originate at the seed stage. Check product recall notices before purchasing or consuming sprouts and microgreens.