Berlin Seeds Recalls Alfalfa Sprouting Seed Over Health Risk

Published on September 28, 2026

Berlin Seeds Recalls Alfalfa Sprouting Seed Because of Possible Health Risk

For Immediate Release

YAVAPAI COUNTY, Arizona. –  Berlin Seeds, of Millersburg, OH, is recalling 950 lbs of Alfalfa Sprouting Seed because the seed has the potential to be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and/or Salmonella.

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are organisms that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Escherichia coli (STEC) O26:H11, E. coli O103:H25, and E. coli O168:H8 are three members of this group of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. STECs cause an acute diarrheal illness (often bloody diarrhea) within a few days of ingestion of the bacteria. Most people recover within a week. However, a subset of infected individuals (especially children < 5 years of age, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals) may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe illness characterized by hemolytic anemia (red cell breakdown), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) and renal failure. HUS can lead to death.

The recalled product was sold by Berlin Seeds at their retail store in Millersburg, OH and through their company website from February 13, 2026 to August 23, 2026 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.

The Berlin Seeds branded Alfalfa Sprouting Seed is packaged under the Berlin Seeds label in 1/4 lb., 1/2 lb., 1 lb., 5 lb., and 50 lb. sizes. The 1/4 lb., 1/2 lb., 1 lb., and 5 lb. sizes are packaged in resealable bags, while the 50 lb. size is packaged in a non-resealable poly woven bag. The 5 lb. and 50 lb. packages bear lot code SAL2-24JB located on the bottom right-hand corner of the label. The 1/4 lb., 1/2 lb., and 1 lb. packages do not bear a lot code.

To date, one illnesses has been reported directly to Berlin Seeds in connection with this seed.

Consumers who believe they may have purchased the affected Alfalfa Sprouting Seed should stop using it immediately and should not sprout it, plant it, or give it away. They should not eat any sprouts already grown from this seed and should throw them away. The seed should be disposed of in the trash in a sealed bag, and any jars, trays, sprouters, or surfaces the seed or sprouts may have touched should be carefully cleaned and sanitized. Consumers who have eaten the recalled product and feel ill should contact their health care provider.

Customers with questions regarding this recall, or who wish to arrange a replacement, may contact Berlin Seeds at 877-464-0892.

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