A salmonella outbreak linked to charcuterie meats has sickened dozens of people, including one resident of Michigan. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 47 individuals have been affected across 22 states. Fortunately, there have been no reported fatalities, although 10 people have required hospitalization.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued a public alert on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, regarding the potential dangers of salmonella in ready-to-eat (RTE) charcuterie meat products. Specifically, the alert highlighted two brands: Busseto brand Charcuterie Sampler and Fratelli Beretta brand Antipasto Gran Beretta.
The affected product, Fratelli Beretta brand Antipasto Gran Beretta, was sold at Costco as a 24-oz. twin-pack consisting of two 12-oz. trays. Similarly, the Busseto brand Charcuterie Sampler was sold at Sam’s Club in an 18-oz. twin-pack with two 9-oz. trays. Consumers can identify the contaminated products by checking for the establishment numbers EST. 7543B and/or EST. #47967” inside the USDA mark of inspection or printed on the package.
The first cases of illness associated with this outbreak were reported between Nov. 20, 2023, and Jan. 1, 2024. Minnesota health officials identified the outbreak strain from an unopened Busseto brand charcuterie sampler, leading to an initial recall on Jan. 3, 2024.
To provide further clarification, the brands and products subject to recall are as follows:
Busseto brand Charcuterie Sampler – This sampler includes prosciutto, sweet soppressata, and dry coppa. It was sold at Sam’s Club as a twin-pack (2 x 9oz) in any lot code.
Fratelli Beretta brand Antipasto Gran Beretta – This product features black pepper coated dry salami, Italian dry salami, dry coppa, and prosciutto. It was sold at Costco as a twin-pack (2 x 12oz) in any lot code.
Individuals are urged to check their refrigerators for any recalled products and refrain from consuming them. The affected items should be disposed of immediately or returned to the store of purchase. Additionally, it is important to thoroughly wash any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the contaminated products, using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.
Salmonella is a group of bacteria known to cause gastrointestinal illness and fever, commonly referred to as salmonellosis. Most people infected with salmonella experience symptoms within 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness typically lasts for approximately four to seven days and often resolves without medical treatment.
Symptoms of salmonellosis include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In more severe cases, individuals may experience high fever, body aches, headaches, lethargy, a rash, and even the presence of blood in urine or stool. In certain instances, salmonellosis can be fatal, although it is important to note that the majority of cases do not result in death.
It is worth mentioning that children under the age of five, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to severe infections caused by salmonella.
As authorities work towards containing and addressing this outbreak, it is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant, checking their refrigerators for any potentially contaminated products. By taking appropriate measures, individuals can minimize their risk of contracting salmonellosis and protect their overall health and well-being.
