Nearly 270 cases of salmonella found in chocolate eggs
European health officials say that 266 confirmed cases
(
https://abcn.ws/38G6r8R) and 58 suspected cases of an
outbreak of salmonella infection linked to chocolate Easter
eggs have now been reported throughout Europe and in
North America, the vast majority in children.
The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control
said that 86.3% of the cases were among children aged
10 or younger, and for all cases in Europe with information
available, 41.3% of them were hospitalized. No deaths have
been reported.
Cases have been reported in 14 European countries, Canada
and the United States.
The European Union agency still suspects a Belgian factory.
Its closure in April, the global recall and withdrawal of their
products from the shelves have reduced the risk of exposure,
but new cases may occur due to the long shelf life and possible
storage of products at home," the agency said.
In early April, food authorities in several European countries
said that Italian company Ferrero has recalled specific batches
of Kinder chocolate products due to suspicions of a connection
between the products and an outbreak of salmonella.
The two outbreak strains which both are multidrug-resistant,
were identified in 10 of the 81 salmonella-positive samples taken
in the Belgian plant in December and January, including in
buttermilk, semi-finished and finished products. The buttermilk
was provided by an Italian supplier where salmonella was not
detected.
"Based on the available evidence, salmonella has not been
detected in other plants, the agency said Wednesday.
The Stockholm-based agency said it continues to monitor the
situation and encouraged close cooperation with food safety
authorities in the countries affected.
