2001-2002 Multistate Outbreaks of Salmonella Enteritidis Infections Linked to Mung Bean Sprouts

Consumption of mung bean sprouts at Asian style restaurants in central Florida (April, 2001), southern and mid-coastal Maine (January, 2002), and Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (February, 2001) was associated with illness caused by Salmonella Enteritidis, phage type 913. Sprouts consumed in Maine were produced by the same Maine grower who received contaminated seed stock. Sprouts used by the Florida restaurants were supplied through sources in Orlando and Tampa. Mung bean seeds were supplied by a US producer. Canada linked their outbreak to the same US warehouse. Data suggested that the mung bean seeds originated in China and was brokered or supplied through the US distributor.

Overview

Outbreak began:February 2001
Affected country:Canada, US
States/territories:FL, ME
Pathogen:Salmonella Enteritidis
Vehicle(s):Sprouts
Location(s):Private Home, Restaurant
Molecular test results:Phage Type 913

Health impact

Total ill:35

Sources & documents

Report / reference links
Outbreak documents