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E.Coli outbreak highlights the importance of robust food safety measures

28 June 2024

As of 25 June the total number of confirmed cases of shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O145 was 275 in the UK, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)

Although case reporting rates are declining, the UKHSA expects to see more cases linked to the outbreak as further samples are referred to it from NHS laboratories and whole genome sequencing is conducted.

Earlier this month, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) confirmed that several sandwich manufacturers had taken precautionary action to withdraw and recall various sandwiches, wraps, subs and rolls after food chain and epidemiological links enabled it to narrow down a wide range of foods to a type of lettuce used in sandwich products as the likely cause of the outbreak.

Commenting on the outbreak, Dr Aidan Taylor, a lecturer in microbiology at the University of Reading, said: "The ongoing E. coli outbreak in the UK is a serious public health concern E. coli is a bacteria commonly found in the guts of humans and other animals. While most strains are harmless, some, like the shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) involved in this outbreak, can cause severe illness.”
 
STEC can contaminate lettuce and other field produce through contact with animal faeces, from manure used as fertiliser, or contaminated irrigation water. In the UK, there are standards in place for farmers to ensure this does not happen, but foods imported from overseas may not be subject to the same quality control. 

“With ready-to-eat foods like sandwiches and salads, the consumer is reliant on the manufacturer to ensure safe preparation and testing. Therefore, in cases of widespread contamination like this outbreak, following product recalls and avoiding implicated foods is crucial. 
 
"This outbreak highlights the importance of robust food safety measures throughout the supply chain and highlights the need for continued vigilance in both industry practices and consumer awareness."


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