U.S. Food Alerts – October 1, 2026
USDA National Cooperative Month
The USDA’s Secretary Rollins issued a USDA proclamation to recognize October 2026 as the Department’s 62nd anniversary of National Cooperative Month.
“Cooperatives are a powerful engine of economic growth for our nation and central to President Trump’s America First agenda to strengthen our economy and empower communities,” said Secretary Rollins. “Today we celebrate our partnerships with these cooperative organizations and reaffirm our commitment to advancing the vital work they do to create jobs, build local prosperity, support critical infrastructure, and expand opportunity for rural America.”
USDA Rural Development offers a variety of financial assistance and services to assist rural businesses, including cooperatives and agricultural producers. For more information on cooperatives, visit USDA Rural Development Cooperative Services.
FDA’s Ongoing Outbreak Investigation of Shiga Toxin-producing E. coli & Salmonella in Sprouts
The seed supplier initiated a recall of the alfalfa seed lot SAL2-24JB linked to this outbreak. This recalled seed lot was sold directly to sprout growers and wholesale distributors and may have been sold at the retail level. Sprout growers and wholesale distributors who received the recalled seed lot have been contacted directly by the seed supplier.
In collaboration with state and local officials, the FDA and CDC continue to investigate the outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and Salmonella Agona infections linked to recalled alfalfa seed. Illnesses started on dates ranging from May 31, 2026, to September 7, 2026 Outbreak Investigation of Shiga Toxin-producing E. coli & Salmonella: Sprouts (August 2026) | FDA
