International outbreak of multiple Salmonella serotype infections linked to sprouted chia seed powder - USA and Canada, 2013-2014.

Salmonella is a leading cause of bacterial foodborne illness. We report the collaborative investigative efforts of US and Canadian public health officials during the 2013-2014 international outbreak of multiple Salmonella serotype infections linked to sprouted chia seed powder. The investigation included open-ended interviews of ill persons, traceback, product testing, facility inspections, and trace forward. Ninety-four persons infected with outbreak strains from 16 states and four provinces were identified; 21% were hospitalized and none died. Fifty-four (96%) of 56 persons who consumed chia seed powder, reported 13 different brands that traced back to a single Canadian firm, distributed by four US and eight Canadian companies. Laboratory testing yielded outbreak strains from leftover and intact product. Contaminated product was recalled. Although chia seed powder is a novel outbreak vehicle, sprouted seeds are recognized as an important cause of foodborne illness; firms should follow available guidance to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination during sprouting.
Authors (Zotero)
Harvey, R. R.; Heiman Marshall, K. E.; Burnworth, L.; Hamel, M.; Tataryn, J.; Cutler, J.; Meghnath, K.; Wellman, A.; Irvin, K.; Isaac, L.; Chau, K.; Locas, A.; Kohl, J.; Huth, P. A.; Nicholas, D.; Traphagen, E.; Soto, K.; Mank, L.; Holmes-Talbot, K.; Needham, M.; Barnes, A.; Adcock, B.; Honish, L.; Chui, L.; Taylor, M.; Gaulin, C.; Bekal, S.; Warshawsky, B.; Hobbs, L.; Tschetter, L. R.; Surin, A.; Lance, S.; Wise, M. E.; Williams, I.; Gieraltowski, L.
Date (Zotero)
June, 2017