Dozens of young children have been infected with salmonella after an outbreak linked to Kinder Surprise eggs.
Batches of the popular chocolate treat, which comes with a toy, are being recalled by Ferrero while investigations take place. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) says 57 people have been infected with salmonella linked to Kinder Surprise eggs in the recent outbreak, with 77% of cases involving children aged five or under.
No deaths have been reported as part of the outbreak, Wales Online reports. In an alert, the FSA said the recall is due to a 'potential link to a salmonella outbreak', with customers advised not to eat the affected products.
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The products affected are the 20g eggs or the three-pack of eggs, all with a best-before date between July 11 2022 and October 7 2022. The FSA said the eggs have all been manufactured at the same factory, and other Ferrero products are not thought to be affected.
Tina Potter, FSA head of incidents, said: “We welcome the precautionary approach being taken by Ferrero and are advising consumers not to eat any of the products listed in the FSA alert. It is really important that consumers follow this advice to avoid the risk of becoming ill with salmonella poisoning.
“We know that these particular products are popular with young children, especially as Easter approaches, so we would urge parents and guardians of children to check if any products already in their home are affected by this recall. The food business involved has voluntarily carried out this product withdrawal and recall and we are working closely with them and their competent authorities to identify the precise cause of this outbreak.”
Symptoms of salmonella include diarrhoea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever. While most cases resolve in a few days, symptoms can be severe and lead to hospital admission, especially in the very young and those with weakened immune systems.
Investigations so far have been led by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Public Health Scotland, Public Health Wales and Public Health Agency Northern Ireland. Dr Lesley Larkin, a surveillance lead at the UKHSA, said: “Anybody with concerns that they have symptoms of salmonellosis should contact their GP or call NHS 111.
"Salmonella can be spread from person to person, so anyone affected should adhere to good hygiene practice such as washing hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and avoiding handling food for others where possible, if you have symptoms.”
Anyone who has bought products with those use-by dates can contact the Ferrero consumer careline on consumers.uk@ferrero.com or 0330 053 8943 to obtain a full refund.
