'Tis the Season to be Careful

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) have issued a warning regarding a Listeria outbreak linked to certain ready-to-eat smoked fish products _[1]. The ongoing investigation has identified 15 cases of listeriosis in the UK since 2020, with nine of these since January 2022. Foods containing Listeria monocytogenes can cause series illness, especially in those that are pregnant or vulnerable.

The majority of those affected experience mild gastroenteritis which subsides after a few days. However, severe illness such as meningitis and life-threatening sepsis has been seen in certain cases.

Incidents such as this demonstrate why it is vital for companies to be continuously testing their products for a whole host of bacterial strains. Food and water testing facilities across the UK test samples for traces of Listeria as well as, Salmonella and Escherichia coli, amongst others.

Don Whitley Scientific supplies, services and calibrates a variety of equipment ideal for use in food testing facilities. This includes, MIXWEL, DILUWEL and MEDIAWEL, a product range that automates the media and sample preparation process.

With the festive season upon us, give your lab the best chance of success by using the latest equipment. For more information on any of the products in this range, please fill in the contact form below or head over to our website.

References:

1. Food Standards Agency. (2022, 12 22). Consumers warned about recalled smoked fish products linked to Listeria outbreak. Retrieved from Food Standards Agency: https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/news/consumers-warned-about-recalled-smoked-fish-products-linked-to-listeria-outbreak