Salmonella Epidemic Linked to Sprouts Causes Death in Finland

A salmonella epidemic that spread across Europe in the spring has resulted in at least one death in Finland. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) identified alfalfa sprouts as the likely primary source of the outbreak.

In Finland, a second death is likely linked to the spring salmonella epidemic, according to the ECDC. Both deceased individuals had underlying health conditions that may have contributed to their deaths, with one patient receiving palliative care. The ECDC reported a total of 109 confirmed Salmonella Bovismorbificans food poisoning cases across EU and EEA countries between January and May. Finland confirmed 35 cases linked to the epidemic, affecting individuals aged 4 to 77.

Finnish food authorities interviewed 49 patients, 31 of whom reported consuming sprouts. Some Finnish cases were connected to a domestic sprout company that used various legume seeds, including alfalfa. These seeds originated from the same Italian supplier linked to infections in other countries. The ECDC suggests the seeds may have been contaminated in India, their original source.

Food safety authorities in Finland are investigating the source of the epidemic. They previously noted that many infected individuals likely consumed uncooked sprouts. While the risk of salmonella infection from sprouts is generally considered small to moderate for frequent consumers, Finnish authorities recommend thoroughly rinsing sprouts with clean water before eating and storing them in the refrigerator. Heating sprouts before consumption is the safest option. Salmonella typically spreads through contaminated food from the feces of infected humans or animals.