On Friday 5 February, the number of suspected cases of salmonella in Victoria, linked to pre-packaged lettuce, almost doubled overnight, reports theguardian.com.
Victoria’s Department of Health and Human Services has received reports of 54 cases of salmonella anatum strain linked to pre-packed lettuce distributed by Victorian-based company Tripod Farmers.
The figure has rapidly grown since news of 28 cases came on Thursday afternoon.
Anyone who has bought any of the affected lettuce mixes with a best-before date on or before 14 February should return them to the store, or throw them out.
Senior medical adviser Finn Romanes said on Thursday the Victorian department had been assured there was no risk associated with the products after that date.
Tripod Farmers managing director Frank Ruffo said the company had been given the go-ahead by health authorities to resume business after a site inspection at its Bacchus Marsh plant.
“We apologise to our customers and anyone affected by this recall,” Ruffo said on Friday. “We are shocked at the test results because we put public safety first and foremost and comply with all Australian health and safety standards.”
Originally the outbreak was said to affect only the pre-packaged lettuce sold at supermarkets, but Lite n’ Easy customers are now also warning the lettuce recall will affect some lunches in their menu this week. Lite n’ Easy has dumped the lettuce supplier following the recall.
Sandwiches sold at 7-Eleven have also been recalled.
Mentone girls grammar school said souvlaki and burgers sold at its canteen on Thursday used some of the potentially tainted lettuce.
“It was used in 18 souvlakis or burgers, but no girls have reported feeling sick.”
Source: theguardian.com