FDA Recall Notice: Berlin Seeds Alfalfa Sprouting Seed Contaminated with STEC & Salmonella
Berlin Seeds has voluntarily recalled all package sizes of its Alfalfa Sprouting Seed after testing linked the product to potential Shiga toxin–producing E. coli (STEC) and Salmonella contamination. Anyone who purchased the seed between and should not sprout or consume it. Discard any remaining product and sanitize all surfaces that contacted the seed.
Berlin Seeds Recall Facts
- Brand / Product: Berlin Seeds Alfalfa Sprouting Seed
- Hazard: Possible contamination with STEC O26:H11, O103:H25, O168:H8 & Salmonella Agona
- Package sizes: ¼ lb, ½ lb, 1 lb, 5 lb, 50 lb
- Lot code: SAL2-24JB (printed on 5 lb & 50 lb bags; smaller bags have no lot code but are still recalled)
- Total quantity recalled: 950 lbs
- Dates sold: 02/13/2026 – 08/23/2026
- Distribution: Berlin Seeds retail store (Millersburg, OH) and website; shipped to 42 U.S. states (list below)
- Reported illnesses: 1 confirmed case as of 09/23/2026
- Consumer contact: 877-464-0892 | order@berlinseeds.life
Why Berlin Seeds Issued the Alfalfa Seed Recall
A supplier alerted Berlin Seeds that irrigation water used by a commercial sprout grower tested positive for E. coli. Finished sprouts from that grower were already under FDA investigation for a multistate outbreak involving several STEC serotypes and Salmonella Agona. Traceback linked the contaminated lot back to Berlin Seeds, prompting this voluntary recall in cooperation with the FDA.
Health Risks of STEC and Salmonella
- STEC: Often causes severe, sometimes bloody diarrhea and can progress to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening kidney condition, particularly in young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.
- Salmonella: Symptoms usually begin 6–72 hours after exposure and include fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. Invasive infections may require medical treatment.
States That Received Berlin Seeds Alfalfa Sprouting Seed
The recalled product was shipped to customers in AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, and WY.
How to Handle Recalled Berlin Seeds Sprouting Seed
- Locate any Berlin Seeds Alfalfa Sprouting Seed in your home, regardless of bag size or lot code.
- Do not sprout, plant, or eat the seed—or any sprouts already grown from it.
- Place the seed in a sealed plastic bag and discard it with household trash.
- Wash and sanitize jars, trays, sprouters, countertops, and your hands thoroughly.
- If you consumed the seed or sprouts and feel ill, contact your healthcare provider.
- For a replacement or additional questions, call 877-464-0892 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. EST) or email order@berlinseeds.life.
Official Images from the Recall
Berlin Seeds Recall FAQ
Which Berlin Seeds Alfalfa Sprouting Seed packages are under recall?
All Berlin Seeds branded Alfalfa Sprouting Seed sold in ¼ lb, ½ lb, 1 lb, 5 lb, and 50 lb bags between February 13 and August 23 2026 are included.
Why did Berlin Seeds recall its Alfalfa Sprouting Seed?
Testing indicated possible contamination with Shiga toxin–producing E. coli (STEC) and Salmonella, both of which can cause serious foodborne illness.
What lot codes or dates identify recalled Berlin Seeds seed?
Lot SAL2-24JB appears on 5 lb and 50 lb bags. Smaller retail bags have no lot code but are still part of the recall if purchased within the affected date range.
Where were Berlin Seeds Alfalfa Sprouting Seeds distributed?
The seed was sold at Berlin Seeds’ Millersburg, OH store and online, shipping to 42 U.S. states listed earlier in this article.
How do I get a refund or replacement from Berlin Seeds?
Dispose of the seed as instructed, then call 877-464-0892 or email order@berlinseeds.life during business hours to arrange a replacement.
Have any illnesses been linked to the Berlin Seeds recall?
Yes. Berlin Seeds has received one confirmed illness report associated with the recalled seed as of September 23 2026.
Is it safe to plant Berlin Seeds Alfalfa Sprouting Seed instead of eating it?
No. Planting contaminated seed could introduce pathogens into soil and the broader environment. Discard the product securely.