Packaged Microgreens Recalled After Positive Listeria Sample Detected

A Canadian firm, Greenbelt Greenhouse LTD of British Columbia, is recalling various clamshell packs of microgreens after the State of Washington Department of Agriculture tested and found Listeria in product.  "Due to the potential risk of contamination the company has ceased the production and distribution of all product as Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the company continue their investigation as to what caused the problem."

Listeria contamination is likely from the packing environment where product is washed, mixed and packed.  These types of processes occur in a moist environment which can be conducive to Listeria.  In the growing area, spray systems and condensation are also a possibility as is harvest collection bins.

https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm605702.htm
Greenbelt Greenhouse Ltd Recalls Greenbelt Microgreens Brand Microgreens Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
April 25, 2018

Microgreens Recalled for the Salmonella Contamination

A Kansas firm is recalling microgreens due to the potential for Salmonella.  The recall comes after examinations by FDA revealed the product contained Salmonella.

Microgreens are similar to bean sprouts in that seeds of various plants are grown from the seed and harvested after sprouting, however with microgreens, the immature greens are cut to include only the stem and leaves.  This is normally within a month of germination.   A variety of plants can be eaten this way and according to a microgreen website, "Some common varieties include amaranth, basil, beets, broccoli, cabbage, celery, chard, chervil, coriander/cilantro, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, mustard, parsley, peas, radish, rocket/arugula, spinach, and sorrel."  In this recall, it was Asian style microgreens.

This issue is that if Salmonella is present on the seeds, then it can grow along with the germinating seed.  It can be difficult to eliminate Salmonella from the seeds.  There was a similar recall in October of 2016.

FDA Recall Notice
https://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm548250.htm
Chlorofields Recalls Asian MIicrogreens Because Of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
March 23, 2017

Micro Greens Recalled in CO for Salmonella Positive Sample

A Colorado company is recalling Organic Micro Greens sold at Whole Foods.  The recall was issued after FDA tested and found Salmonella is a sample of the product.

So what are microgreens?  They are very young plants of various vegetables, such as kale, spinach, beets, lettuce, etc, that are 7 to 14 days after germination.  Similar to bean sprouts, although sprouts are harvested 2 days after germination, so microgreens in comparison will have leaves and roots whereas sprouts will not.   However like sprouts, micro greens can be a higher risk for organisms like Salmonella.  The reason is that the conditions for growth of the micro greens will support organisms such as Salmonella.

FDA Recall Notice
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm524638.htm
Osage Gardens Inc. Recalls Osage Gardens Organic 2oz Micro Greens Because of Possible Health Risk
For Immediate Release
October 7, 2016