Regulators continue investigations on listeria-linked food
The update came after the deaths of two patients that ate a contaminated sandwich.
The Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland are continuing investigation over food linked to listeria infections, an announcement revealed. Cases of the infection were confirmed in England.
All products linked to the cases have been withdrawn. To date, all of the cases linked to this incident have involved people from vulnerable groups in healthcare organisations who were being treated for existing medical conditions.
The update came after two hospitals patients that ate a sandwich containing the said bacteria died, which brought the number of deaths to five.
The outbreak were linked to sandwiches and salads from the Good Food Chain and its supplier North Country Quality Foods. The firm has since withdrawn products that might pose a risk of listeria infection.
“Our sympathies remain with the families of the patients who have tragically passed away. We have taken action along with local authorities to minimise the risk based on the evidence so far. The FSA will continue to investigate the cause of the outbreak to prevent a reoccurrence,” Dr. Colin Sullivan, chief operating officer at the FSA, said.
Listeria is widespread in the environment and can contaminate a range of foods. Low levels of listeria are legally permitted in some foods as its risk to the general population is low and infections are rare.
