MADISON – 17 Wisconsinites sick, one hospitalized; consumers advised not to eat alfalfa sprouts from Calco and Everything Sprouts

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has confirmed 17 cases of Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC) and Salmonella in Wisconsinites related to eating alfalfa sprouts from Everything Sprouts sold under the Calco and Everything Sprouts brands. One person has been hospitalized.

The Wisconsin cases are connected to a multistate outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC) and Salmonella infections, and linked to alfalfa sprouts distributed to restaurants and grocery stores. In addition to the Wisconsin cases, Minnesota has identified 23 cases linked to the outbreak and illnesses have been identified in other states. DHS is working with Minnesota health officials, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and other states to investigate this outbreak.

DHS advises Wisconsinites to check homes for alfalfa sprouts from Everything Sprouts and Calco. Throw them away and do not eat them. Anyone who has eaten these alfalfa sprouts should monitor for symptoms of Salmonella and STEC infection and contact a health care provider if symptoms become severe.

Symptoms of STEC infection usually include stomach cramps and diarrhea, often with bloody stools, with a low-grade or no fever. People usually become sick two to five days after swallowing the bacteria. Most people recover in five to seven days. However, STEC infections can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe complication that involves acute kidney failure and other severe problems.

Symptoms of Salmonella infection include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. Symptoms usually begin between six hours to six days after swallowing the bacteria. Most people recover from Salmonella infection on their own. Some people, especially children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, may have serious symptoms that require medical treatment.

Approximately 1,000 total Salmonella infections and 500 STEC infections are reported each year in Wisconsin. More information can be found on the DHS Salmonella and STEC webpages.

This investigation is ongoing. Stay up to date by visiting the DHS Outbreaks, Recalls, and Investigations webpage.

Published on: Aug 21, 2026 at 7:48 am