The company that recalled alfalfa sprouts earlier this week after they were linked to a recent outbreak of salmonella in Nebraska and Iowa is defending its product.

SunSprout Enterprises Inc. said Thursday that it agreed to recall its alfalfa and onion sprouts as a precaution. But officials at the Omaha company say they believe their safety practices, which include testing for salmonella, would have caught any tainted sprouts.

Nebraska health officials said at least 17 cases of salmonella St. Paul illnesses had been linked to alfalfa sprouts that SunSprout distributed to restaurants and grocery stores. At least 12 Iowa cases have also been confirmed.

The company said additional information is available by calling 402-331-0803.