Food manufacturers are recalling over 60 types of pre-packed sandwiches, wraps, and salads sold in major UK supermarkets due to potential E. coli contamination. Although the bacteria have not been detected in the products, the recall is a precautionary measure. The affected items are believed to contain salad leaves.

Retailers involved include Aldi, Asda, Co-op, and Morrisons.

E. coli Outbreak Details

• Number of Cases: 211 people across the UK are currently affected, up from 113 last week.
• Hospitalizations: At least 67 people have been admitted to hospital.
• Cause: Linked to widely available food items, now identified as salad leaves used in sandwiches and wraps.

Products Recalled

• Greencore Group: 45 products including 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 Amazon prawn layered salad.
• Samworth Brothers Manton Wood: 15 products including Tesco chicken salad sandwich, Tesco tuna crunch sub, and Tesco spicy bean wrap.
• Upcoming Recall: A third manufacturer is expected to announce a recall soon.

Official Statements

Darren Whitby, Head of Incidents at the Food Standards Agency:
“This is a complex investigation. We have worked swiftly with businesses and local authorities to narrow down the wide range of foods consumed to a small number of salad leaf products. Infections caused by E. coli STEC bacteria can cause severe bloody diarrhoea and, in some cases, more serious complications. We advise consumers not to eat any of these products.”

Andrew Opie, British Retail Consortium:
“Retailers affected are taking swift action to remove these products from sale and are working closely with the Food Standards Agency to minimize risk to their customers.”

Understanding E. coli

E. coli bacteria are diverse, with some strains being harmless while others can cause severe illness. The outbreak involves E. coli STEC O145, which produces a Shiga toxin that can damage the gut lining. Symptoms include bloody diarrhoea, stomach cramps, fever, and vomiting. While most recover without medical treatment, young children and people with underlying health conditions are at higher risk for serious complications, including haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), which can damage the kidneys.

Prevention Tips

• Wash hands regularly with warm water and soap.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
• Cook food to recommended temperatures.
• Avoid preparing food for others if symptomatic and stay away from hospitals or care homes.
• Do not return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.