At least 67 people have been admitted to hospital, the UK Health Security Agency says.
Experts had previously said a continuing outbreak of E. coli was linked to food that was widely and readily available – but had not pinned down specific items.
One of the suppliers involved, Greencore Group, has recalled 45 different products, external so far.
These include an Aldi chicken fajita triple wrap, Asda smoky beans and cheddar cheese wrap, Boots chicken salad sandwich, Sainsbury’s Greek style wrap, Co-op ham and cheese wrap, Morrisons gluten-free sandwich platter and an Amazon prawn layered salad.
Manufacturer Samworth Brothers Manton Wood has recalled 15 products., external
These include a Tesco chicken salad sandwich, Tesco tuna crunch sub and Tesco spicy bean wrap.
A third manufacturer is expected to announce a recall as soon as Saturday.
Darren Whitby, head of incidents at the Food Standards Agency, said: “This is a complex investigation, and we have worked swiftly with the relevant businesses and the local authorities concerned to narrow down the wide range of foods consumed to a small number of salad leaf products that have been used in sandwiches and wraps.”
He added: “Infections caused by [E. coli] STEC bacteria can cause severe bloody diarrhoea and, in some cases, more serious complications.
“We therefore advise any consumers who have any of these products not to eat them.”
Andrew Opie, at the British Retail Consortium, said: “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 minimise risk to their customers.”
E. coli can sometimes contaminate the water or soil used to grow lettuce and other vegetables.
By
Source link
