HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

In response to confirmed botulism cases associated with the consumption of packaged Spanish potato omelette, the Palacios Alimentación Business Group has taken precautionary measures. The group has issued a statement announcing the withdrawal of the affected product lines from sale in various points of sale. Additionally, the manufacture of the product at their Mudrian factory in Segovia province has been temporarily halted.

The Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) reported multiple cases of botulism to the Public Health Alert System, including both confirmed and probable cases linked to the consumption of packaged potato omelette in the days leading up to the outbreak.

Brands Affected by the Health Alert

Consumers are urged to refrain from consuming packaged potato omelette products from the following supermarket brands, including both white-label and leading brands:

• Palacios brand
• Chef Select (available at Lidl supermarkets)
• Auchan (available at Alcampo supermarkets)
• Eroski
• Unite
• Cons
• DAY
• Ametller
• Condis
• El Corte Inglés
• Carrefour
• Alipende (available at Ahorramás supermarkets)
• IFA Group supermarkets
• Rikissimo brand

The Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) clarified that they currently lack specific information regarding the affected brands and batches. However, it appears that several contaminated tortillas, produced by the same manufacturer, were supplied to multiple supermarkets. Investigations are ongoing, and the results from the factory inspections are yet to be conclusive.

Extent of the Outbreak

The recent botulism outbreak, according to the latest report from the Center for the Coordination of Health Emergencies and Alerts (CCAES), has affected a total of seven individuals. AESAN has reported cases occurring in various regions.

Among the affected individuals, four cases have been laboratory-confirmed, with symptoms appearing between June 24 and July 4. Additionally, three probable cases have been identified, with onset dates ranging from June 21 to July 10. The consumption of the suspect product occurred between June 19 and July 5. While at least three people have been hospitalised, fortunately, there have been no fatalities recorded thus far.

In Spain, two confirmed cases have been reported in Galicia and Asturias, affecting patients aged 49 and 50. Both individuals required intensive care treatment during their hospitalisation. The probable cases have been detected in Valencia, Madrid, and Andalusia, involving patients aged 27, 43, and 49. Among them, the person in Madrid required intensive care treatment as well.

Italy has also reported two cases of botulism linked to the consumption of Spanish omelettes in Spain. The patients are a 23-year-old woman and her 61-year-old father. After returning from Valladolid on July 1, they consumed the suspect item on June 30, leading to their illness.

Authorities and health organisations continue to investigate the source and scope of the outbreak, urging the public to be cautious and avoid consuming the affected products until further notice. Stay informed through official updates from relevant health agencies to safeguard your well-being.

Symptoms of Botulism

Botulinum poisoning, a rare yet life-threatening condition, is caused by toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.

Foodborne botulism typically exhibits symptoms starting approximately 18 to 36 hours after consuming contaminated food. However, in some cases, symptoms can manifest as quickly as six hours or as late as 10 days after ingestion. The symptoms may present as double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing or breathing, paralysis, a thick-feeling tongue, dry mouth, and muscle weakness.

If anyone has consumed the suspected product and experiences any of these symptoms, it is vital to seek immediate medical attention. Early intervention and proper medical care are crucial in managing the effects of botulism and preventing further complications.

Sources

https://www.20minutos.es/noticia/5149189/0/listaddo-supermercados-marcas-afectadas-tortilla-patatas-botulismo-espana/
https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2023/07/seven-botulism-cases-linked-to-spanish-dish/