Food Standards Agency Issues Warning on Salmonella Contamination in Polish Poultry Products

December 9, 2023

Increase in Salmonella Cases Linked to Poultry Imports from Poland Prompts Safety Advisory

There is a surge in Salmonella cases associated with poultry products imported from Poland, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) issues a safety alert, urging consumers to exercise caution in handling and cooking poultry at home.

Key Points:

Rise in Salmonella Cases: The FSA, in collaboration with Food Standards Scotland (FSS) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), highlights an escalation in Salmonella Enteritidis cases related to poultry products from Poland.

Safety Advice for Consumers:

  • Follow cooking and storage instructions on product labels, ensuring adherence to recommended cooking time and temperature for safe consumption.
  • Use or freeze poultry products by their designated use-by date.
  • Thoroughly wash hands after handling raw poultry and refrain from washing raw poultry products.
  • Clean all surfaces and utensils with hot soapy water after contact with raw poultry.
  • Reheat cooked and frozen meat only once.

Ongoing Investigation: A comprehensive investigation is underway concerning multiple Salmonella strains associated with poultry imports from Poland. Over 200 cases of salmonellosis, caused by specific genetic strains of Salmonella Enteritidis, have been reported this year.

Collaboration with Poland and EU: The FSA is in discussions with officials in Poland and the European Union to implement necessary measures enhancing the safety of imported poultry and eggs from Poland. Upcoming import controls on food and feed entering the UK from the EU aim to verify the implementation of safety controls and uphold UK food and feed standards, safeguarding public health.

Salmonella Overview: Salmonella, a common bacteria causing food poisoning, can be present in various foods. Notably, raw meat, undercooked poultry, eggs, and unpasteurized milk are common sources. Babies, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are advised to consume runny or raw eggs only if they bear the British Lion mark or adhere to the Laid in Britain egg assurance scheme. This precaution does not apply to severely immunocompromised individuals.

FSA’s Action Plan: The FSA emphasizes its commitment to working closely with international partners to address the issue and ensure the safety of imported food products.

Conclusion: Consumers are urged to remain vigilant, follow recommended safety practices, and stay informed about updates regarding the Salmonella contamination in Polish poultry products. The FSA continues to prioritize public health and safety in its ongoing efforts to address the situation.

Source:https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/news/fsa-alerts-consumers-on-salmonella-and-polish-poultry

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