Salmonella outbreak linked to home delivery meals sickens over a dozen people - Scripps News
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Home Delivery Meals from Metabolic Meals
A recent outbreak of Salmonella has been linked to home delivery meals made by Metabolic Meals, prompting health officials to issue a warning to customers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other government agencies are advising consumers to check their refrigerators and freezers immediately.
What is the Outbreak?
The Salmonella outbreak was first reported in December 2023 and has since been linked to meals delivered by Metabolic Meals, a company that specializes in pre-prepared, home-cooked meals. The meals were shipped directly to customers' homes, where they were stored in the refrigerator or freezer before being consumed.
How Did the Outbreak Occur?
The exact cause of the outbreak is still under investigation, but it is believed that the Salmonella bacteria were introduced into the food products during the manufacturing process or during shipping. The CDC and other health officials are working to identify the source of the outbreak and prevent further contamination.
Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
Salmonella infections can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Headache
In severe cases, Salmonella infections can lead to more serious complications, such as:
- Blood poisoning (sepsis)
- Reactive arthritis
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Who is Affected?
The CDC has issued a warning to all customers who received meals from Metabolic Meals between December 1st and January 15th, 2023. This includes:
- Anyone who ordered meals directly from the company's website or social media channels
- Customers who received meals through third-party delivery services
- Individuals who received meals as gifts
What Should You Do?
To protect yourself from Salmonella infection, follow these steps:
- Check your refrigerator and freezer: Inspect all food products for any signs of spoilage or contamination.
- Discard perishable items: If you are unsure whether an item is safe to eat, discard it immediately.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling any food or surfaces that may have come into contact with contaminated foods.
- Cook meals thoroughly: If you decide to consume a meal from Metabolic Meals, cook it thoroughly according to the package instructions.
Prevention is Key
To prevent future outbreaks like this one, companies must prioritize food safety and take steps to ensure that their products are handled, stored, and prepared safely. This includes:
- Following proper food handling and storage procedures
- Conducting regular testing for Salmonella and other pathogens
- Implementing strict quality control measures
What is Metabolic Meals Doing?
Metabolic Meals has issued a statement apologizing for the outbreak and assuring customers that they are taking steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. The company has:
- Withdrawn all affected meals: Metabolic Meals has recalled all meals delivered between December 1st and January 15th, 2023.
- Conducted an internal investigation: The company is working with regulatory agencies to identify the source of the outbreak and implement corrective actions.
Conclusion
The Salmonella outbreak linked to Metabolic Meals serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and handling. By taking steps to prevent contamination and ensuring that products are handled, stored, and prepared safely, companies can minimize the risk of outbreaks like this one. Consumers must also take responsibility for checking their refrigerators and freezers regularly and discarding perishable items if they are unsure whether they are safe to eat.
What's Next?
As the investigation into the Salmonella outbreak continues, regulatory agencies will likely conduct further testing and monitoring to ensure that all affected products have been safely recalled. Consumers should remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves from foodborne illness.
Resources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): www.fda.gov
Stay Informed
To stay up-to-date on the latest information about the Salmonella outbreak, follow reputable news sources and health organizations.