New Recall Issued for Vegan Chicken and Bacon Wraps Amid E.coli Contamination Fears
In the latest development of the ongoing E.coli outbreak, a third company has issued a recall for a specific product over concerns of potential contamination. Customers are being urged to avoid consuming vegan chicken and bacon wraps sold exclusively at WHSmith, as the food manufacturer, THIS, has announced a precautionary recall for all wraps purchased on or before Tuesday, June 18.
While there have been no reported cases of E.coli found in the product, THIS has taken this measure as a precaution in case any of the ingredients used in the wraps have been contaminated. Health officials are currently investigating the source of the outbreak, as this particular strain of E.coli can cause severe illness. As of June 11, there have been 211 confirmed cases and 67 people have required hospital treatment.
This recent recall follows similar actions taken by two other manufacturers last week, who recalled a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and salads sold in major British supermarkets. A list of affected products can be found on the manufacturer’s website.
In response to the recall, Greencore Group, who produces some of the recalled products, has assured that they adhere to the highest standards of food safety and are working closely with the Food Standards Agency and their suppliers to determine the source of the potential contamination. Similarly, Samworth Brothers Manton Wood, the supplier of a salad ingredient used in some of their products, has also issued a recall as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of consumers. They have also stated that no other products from their Manton Wood site are affected.
The current strain of E.coli, also known as Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC), is usually harmless and found in the intestines of humans and animals. However, in some cases, it can cause severe illness and even lead to kidney failure. Sue Davies, Head of Consumer Protection Policy at Which?, has urged the Food Standards Agency and the UK Health Security Agency to investigate the source of the widespread outbreak and take necessary action to prevent further cases. She stresses the importance of not becoming complacent with food safety and standards.
Trish Mannes from the UK Health Security Agency has advised anyone experiencing symptoms such as severe and bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever to seek medical attention and follow the guidance provided by NHS.uk. She also emphasizes the importance of proper hygiene, including washing hands with soap and warm water and using disinfectants to clean surfaces, to prevent the spread of infection. Those who may be infected should also refrain from preparing food for others and avoid work or school until 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.