In the news

The Daily Mail reported on an investigation into a mystery salmonella poisoning outbreak that has affected more than 50 and hospitalized 10. Genetic testing has revealed the infection was caused by the rare Salmonella Blockley strain, which the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warned is particularly severe. Cases of S. Blockley are very rare in Europe. There had been 36 cases in England, seven in Wales, and 11 in Scotland, with sample dates ranging between July 27 and Aug 24, 2024. The ages of patients ranged from two to 85. The most affected group, with 13 cases, was those in the 50 to 59 bracket. Studies suggest some patients may continue to experience symptoms for up to ten years after infection. UKHSA said a national level investigation had been opened due to the number of cases and indicated healthcare professionals needed to be alert. A UKHSA spokesperson confirmed their investigation was ongoing, and the course remained unconfirmed. However, it is believed there have been no further cases of S. Blockley. @ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14554083/Salmonella-blockley-outbreak-alert-unknown-source.html 

The deadly outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes due to Yu Shang RTE poultry products has ended. The outbreak caused 24 illnesses in nine states: California (14), Georgia (1), Illinois (2), Michigan (1), Nevada (1), New Jersey (1), New York (1), Oregon (1), and Tennessee (2). The illnesses occurred over three years. Samples from sick people were collected from October 24, 2021, to January 25, 2025. Twenty-two of the patients were hospitalized. Eight illnesses were related to pregnancy, according to the CDC. A California mother and her twins were sick, and both infants died. Listeria was found in samples tested from the mother and one of the twins but not from the other infant. For this reason, only the mother and one twin are included as confirmed cases in this outbreak. A Tennessee mother and her infant were sick, and her infant died. WGS was performed on the Listeria cultured from the patients. Results showed the fingerprints closely resemble one another, suggesting that the patients were exposed to the same source of contamination. Tests on Yu Shang products were positive for Listeria, and WGS showed it matched the outbreak strain. @ https://www.pritzkerlaw.com/personal-injury/2025/deadly-yu-shang-listeria-outbreak/

The Food Standards Australia reported that Coles Supermarkets Australia is conducting a recall of the various mixed salads. The products have been available for sale in Coles Supermarkets and Coles Local stores and through Coles Online in QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC, and TAS. The products have been available for sale in Cole’s supermarkets and Coles Local stores, as well as through Coles online. The recall was following a recall of several Fresh Salad Co Baby Spinach products, which were sold in Aldi, as well as similar spinach items sold at Woolworths. Coles has become the fifth supermarket to issue a recall on a selection of salad products. Coles has issued the recall for six products, which have been available for sale in Coles Supermarkets and Coles Local stores as well as through Coles Online in Queensland and Northern New South Wales. @ https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/food-recalls/recall-alert/updated-290325-coles-various-mixed-salad-leaves

The FSS (Food Safety Scotland) reported that Isle of Mull Cheese is recalling Hebridean Blue Cheese due to Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) being found in the product. The recall notice affects all pack sizes with a best before date of April 10, 2025, and a batch code 8051224. @ https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/alert/fsa-prin-14-2025