Botulism outbreak associated with dried salted fish

Botulism outbreak associated with dried salted fish

16/01/2017

Authorities in Germany and Spain have reported six cases of foodborne botulism associated with the consumption of dried salted fish in November-December 2016.

 

EFSA and ECDC worked jointly to assess the extent of this multi-country outbreak and to identify the source of infection.

Food safety authorities in Spain, Germany and other countries in which the concerned fish product was delivered have now halted distribution and issued public warnings.

Foodborne botulism is caused by consumption of improperly processed food or faulty packaging. It is a rare but potentially fatal disease.