A multi-agency investigation is underway following five deaths potentially linked to frozen breaded chicken products contaminated with salmonella. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Public Health England (PHE) have confirmed that salmonella was a contributory factor in one death, while four other fatalities are being examined for possible connections.
Since January 2020, there have been 480 cases of salmonellosis caused by two strains of Salmonella Enteritidis associated with frozen, raw, breaded chicken items. The outbreak has been traced to products sold by retailers including Lidl, Aldi, and Iceland, as well as brands SFC and Chick Inn. Investigations indicate the origin of the salmonella is Poland, with multiple suppliers and farm-level producers identified.
The FSA has issued product recalls and is urging consumers to handle and cook frozen breaded chicken products carefully. Colin Sullivan, Chief Operating Officer of the FSA, said: 'Our advice is to always take care when storing, handling and cooking these types of frozen breaded chicken products to help reduce the risk of food poisoning. You should always check the cooking instructions on food packaging.'
PHE’s Saheer Gharbia noted that cases continue to be reported, though at lower levels than last year. Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever. Vulnerable groups, such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, may experience more severe illness.
The FSA and PHE are working with Public Health Scotland, Public Health Wales, and Food Standards Scotland. Further recalls have been issued, and the public is reminded to follow cooking instructions precisely to eliminate harmful bacteria.
