Sprouts Recall Over Listeria Expands in U.S., Canada

WASHINGTONSprouters Northwest, based in Kent, Wash., expanded its Jan. 28 recall of sprout products sold in the United States and Canada to now include all varieties of sprout products, wheatgrass and pea shoots, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced Feb. 1. The recall was initiated because of possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

The recall involves all varieties of sprouts products sold under the Sprouters Northwest and LifeForce brand names, including 3-Bean Munchie, Alfalfa, Bean, Broccoli, Brocco Sandwich sprouts, Clover, Deli, Spicy; Wheatgrass and/or Pea Shoots distributed to retail stores and foodservice distribution chains through Jan. 30, 2013, in Washington, Oregon, Alaska and British Columbia.

The recalled products are packaged in 3-, 4- and 5-ounce plastic clamshell containers, plastic cups and plastic trays; and in 1-, 2- or 5-pound plastic bags with best by dates including all and up to Feb. 17, 2013.