Health 'bomb' in Europe: Dangerous salmonella strain found in noodles

European health and food safety authorities are investigating a significant salmonella outbreak linked to noodle products, which has raised alarms across 14 countries. The outbreak, primarily affecting children and young adults, has resulted in 106 confirmed cases, with at least 49 individuals requiring hospitalization.

According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the first cases were detected in November. Authorities believe that "flavored noodle products" are the most likely source of the ongoing infections, with evidence pointing to products from the same brand. While the specific supplier has not been identified, European services indicated that the cases associated with the Salmonella Stanley strain are linked to a producer in Ukraine.

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flavored noodle products are the most probable source of an ongoing outbreak of infections

Reeva Foods, in response to the situation, acknowledged the "alleged detection" of Salmonella Stanley in a specific batch of instant noodles distributed in the Baltic market. These products were manufactured by the Ukrainian company Euro Food Service, a producer for Reeva. The company has initiated an internal investigation and recalled affected batches, while also conducting independent laboratory tests and cooperating with authorities.

Cases have been reported in Austria, the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, and Sweden. Microbiological data indicates the salmonella strain was found in chicken and spicy chicken flavored noodles in Germany and Lithuania. Symptoms of salmonella poisoning include diarrhea, fever, vomiting, dehydration, and stomach cramps, with most recovering within a week, though severe cases can occur in vulnerable populations.

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The safety of our consumers is our highest priority