Salmonella On The Rise
Salmonella is estimated to be responsible for around 1000 deaths ever year and is one of the most common causes of food poisoning in the UK. For this reason, the latest findings into outbreaks of salmonella in the UK are especially worrying.
Last year, there were 137 cases of Salmonella Enteritidis (PT) 14b recorded across England and Wales. This year, there have been 443 cases – an increase of 223%! An investigation is being carried out in 144 clusters of cases, in an attempt to ascertain whether there is a common source of infection. After linking them outbreaks to some catering establishments and a care home, it is suspected the clusters may be connected to eggs sourced from outside the UK; including an establishment in Spain.
It is worth remembering that there are very low instances of salmonella being found in eggs sourced in the UK. Although there can be no guarantee that any egg will be free from salmonella, it is sensible to source your eggs wisely and make sure you cook them properly. For more help of cooking eggs properly, see the Cooking Eggs post.
Tags: eggs, Food Hygiene, Food Safety, salmonella