An outbreak of salmonella inked to ready-made sandwiches has struck down 80 people, killing one. The outbreak has mainly affected young adults around the UK and Ireland, although a 12-month-old child is also reportedly ill.
Last month, a woman in her late 70s died at home a few days after being discharged form the Royal Liverpool Hospital. A spokesman from the hospital confirmed that salmonella was a contributing factor to her death.
The outbreak is under investigation by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the Health Protection Agency, as well as Food Safety Authority Ireland (FSAI).
The inquiry is focused on meat and poultry products. One company – believed to be based in Ireland - who supply catering ingredients, have withdrawn its products from the market as a precautionary measure.
Last night the FSAI said: “The FSAI is advising food outlets providing ready-to-eat sandwiches to be particularly strict in adhering to best hygiene practices. It reminds retailers of the importance of ensuring that hot sandwiches must be thoroughly cooked before serving to the consumer.”
“It also reiterates the need for strict procedures to be followed at all times to avoid cross contamination between raw and cooked foods,” it added
If the contamination is traced back to ready-made sandwiches, hygiene and safety standards in the industry will be questioned.
