The Packer, the produce trade journal always on the cutting edge, has decided after 55 outbreaks in 14 years sickening about 15,000 and killing dozens, that sprouts may be too risky to serve.

Referring to the Jimmy John’s sprout outbreaks, the editorial says a year ago, an Oregon epidemiologist said clover sprouts were no safer than alfalfa and predicted a rise in clover sprout outbreaks if Jimmy John’s switched.

Unfortunately, he was right.

Last month, a rival chain, Jason’s Deli, announced it would drop sprouts from all 230 of its restaurants later this year in response to food safety concerns over the item. Wal-Mart reportedly dropped sprouts from its offerings nationwide late in 2010 because of food safety concerns.

Companies that sell or serve them to consumers know the risks, and more every month are deciding the risk isn’t worth it.