Salmonella outbreak information

Since the beginning of January 2022, more than 320 people, mainly children, have become ill with Salmonella in Europe. This outbreak, caused by two specific strains of Salmonella (multi-resistant S. Typhimurium monophasic sequence type 34), is linked to Ferrero Kinder Chocolate brand products manufactured in a factory in Belgium. The Ministry of Health immediately launched an investigation in Austria after the outbreak became known. An analysis by the AGES Reference Center for Salmonella shows that 14 people, including ten children, were also infected with the same strain of salmonella in Austria. five children had to be treated in hospital. AGES has been tasked with clarifying a foodborne illness outbreak that has spread across the federal states.

Recall of all products from plant in Belgium

Certain products linked to the multi-state salmonella outbreak have also been shipped to Austria. The responsible food supervisory authorities of the federal states are monitoring the recall and taking any further measures that may be necessary. In Austria, no salmonella was detectable in previous tests of confectionery from the affected company. On the instructions of the Belgian food safety authorities, production in Arlon, Belgium, has been temporarily halted. The recall includes Kinder Surprise (Maxi), Kinder Schokobons (White), Kinder Mini Eggs, Kinder (Maxi) Mix and Kinder Happy Moments products manufactured and on the market at this plant. Since none of these Ferrero products should currently be found in stores, the health authorities once again urge consumers not to eat any products purchased - see the product list of the expanded Ferrero recall.

Multi-national salmonella outbreak

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Public Health Agency (ECDC) are investigating cases of illness in several European countries. On February 17, 2022, the United Kingdom reported a cluster of cases with monophasic Salmonella typhimurium sequence type 34. As of May 18, 2022, 324 cases have been reported in 12 EU/EEA countries and the United Kingdom, including two different strains. Most cases are younger than 10 years, 41% of all cases were hospitalized-see EFSA/ECDC risk assessment. The Ministry of Health and AGES are in contact with the European authorities.