An ongoing E. coli outbreak has affected more than 100 people, and local health officials are investigating a potential link to salads served at several events. The St. Louis County Health Department suspects that Andre’s Banquets & Catering is the likely source of the contamination. Despite a negative test result for lettuce samples from the catering company, the investigation remains focused on it, with health officials considering the possibility that bacteria may have been missed in the sampling process.
John Armengol Jr., the owner of Andre’s Banquet Center, has publicly refuted the Health Department’s assertions, claiming that the testing on lettuce samples was negative. In a recent statement, he expressed relief over the negative test results but also criticized the suggestion that his business was the cause of the outbreak. He emphasized his commitment to cooperating with health authorities as they continue their investigation.
The outbreak primarily affected students from Rockwood Summit High School, with one individual currently hospitalized. The illnesses have been linked to five separate events held between November 6-9, including two funerals, a high school band banquet, and a veterans event. The affected individuals have reported similar symptoms, and health officials are working to trace the source of the contamination.
Although a Monday test of lettuce samples returned negative results for E. coli, the St. Louis County Health Department cautioned that such tests may not always detect bacteria in isolated pockets, leaving room for further investigation. The health department is continuing to examine the outbreak, seeking additional evidence that could pinpoint the exact cause of the illness.
As the investigation unfolds, Andre’s Banquets & Catering is facing potential legal challenges, with at least two lawsuits already filed against the company. Health authorities from the Missouri Department of Health are conducting interviews with those affected and monitoring the situation closely. Further testing is expected in the coming weeks to gather more information and clarify the source of the E. coli outbreak.
