The U.S. Department of Agriculture said the sprouts may be linked to 13 cases of Salmonella Typhimirium infection. Nine of the illnesses were reported in Washington and four were in Oregon. At least two people were hospitalized, the Washington State Health Department said

The sprouts were sold in a variety of package sizes labeled "Alfalfa Sprouts," or as mixed varieties that contain alfalfa sprouts as an ingredient. The sprouts were distributed to grocery stores, and possibly other retail outlets in Washington and Oregon.

USDA said the Kent, Wash., company was working closely with state officials and the Food and Drug Administration to determine the cause of the problem and what can be done to combat it.