Food manufacturers are recalling at least 60 varieties of pre-packed sandwiches, wraps, and salads sold in major supermarkets due to possible contamination with E. coli.
Although E. coli bacteria have not been detected in the products, they are being recalled as a precaution. The recall specifically involves items containing salad leaves.
Retailers affected by the recall include Aldi, Asda, Co-op, and Morrisons.
Currently, 211 people across the UK are known to be affected by E. coli, an increase from 113 reported last week. At least 67 individuals have been hospitalized, according to the UK Health Security Agency.
Previously, experts had linked an ongoing E. coli outbreak to food that was widely available but had not identified specific items.
One of the suppliers involved, Greencore Group, has recalled 45 different products, which include an Aldi chicken fajita triple wrap, an Asda smoky beans and cheddar cheese wrap, a Boots chicken salad sandwich, a Sainsbury’s Greek style wrap, a Co-op ham and cheese wrap, a Morrisons gluten-free sandwich platter, and an Amazon prawn layered salad.
Manufacturer Samworth Brothers Manton Wood has recalled 15 products, including a Tesco chicken salad sandwich, a Tesco tuna crunch sub, and a Tesco spicy bean wrap.
A third manufacturer is expected to announce a recall as early as Saturday.
Darren Whitby, head of incidents at the Food Standards Agency, stated: “This is a complex investigation, and we have worked swiftly with the relevant businesses and local authorities to narrow down the wide range of foods consumed to a small number of salad leaf products used in sandwiches and wraps.”
He added: “Infections caused by [E. coli] STEC bacteria can lead to severe bloody diarrhea and, in some cases, more serious complications. We therefore advise consumers who have any of these products not to eat them.”
Andrew Opie of the British Retail Consortium noted: “Retailers affected are taking swift action to remove these products from sale and are working closely with the Food Standards Agency to take any further action needed to minimize risk to their customers.”
E. coli can sometimes contaminate the water or soil used to grow lettuce and other vegetables.
E. coli consists of a diverse group of bacteria that normally reside in human and animal intestines. While some types are harmless, others can cause serious illness.
Tests have identified the type involved in this outbreak as E. coli STEC O145. This strain produces a Shiga toxin that can damage the lining of the gut.
Symptoms of infection can include bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, and vomiting. Symptoms usually appear a few days after infection.
Most people recover without medical treatment, but some, particularly young children or those with underlying health conditions, may become very ill.
There is no specific treatment for E. coli infections. Most cases can be managed at home with plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
However, a small number of cases may develop serious complications, such as haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), which can affect the kidneys.
People should seek medical attention if they are concerned about their symptoms.
To reduce the risk of infection, individuals should regularly wash their hands with warm water and soap, as alcohol gels do not eliminate all pathogens causing diarrheal illness.
Additionally, fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed, and food should be cooked to the recommended temperatures.
If symptoms are present, individuals should avoid preparing food for others and refrain from visiting hospitals or care homes. It is also advised not to return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have ceased.
