Salmonella Outbreak: 24 Affected, 5 Hospitalized from Charcuterie Meats

In January 2024, a salmonella outbreak connected to specific charcuterie meats is alerted by the CDC.Photo byCDC

An outbreak of salmonella linked to charcuterie meats has affected at least 24 individuals, prompting five hospitalizations across 14 states. Fratelli Beretta USA, Inc. recalled over 11,000 pounds of Busseto Foods ready-to-eat charcuterie products following the Minnesota Department of Agriculture's detection of salmonella in an unopened sample of Busseto Foods Charcuterie Sampler Prosciutto, Sweet Soppressata, and Dry Coppa.

The outbreak spans 14 states and involves 24 reported illnesses, resulting in five hospitalizations. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported. Michigan has reported only one illness as of January 5, 2024.

The affected products were distributed to Sam's Club centres in several states, including Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Texas. Specifically, the recalled products include 18-ounce plastic tray packages of Busseto Foods Charcuterie Sampler Prosciutto, Sweet Soppressata, and Dry Coppa with LOT Code L075330300 and a "best by" date of April 27, 2024. These products include two 9-ounce packets in a twin pack and are labelled with the establishment numbers "EST." 7543B" and "EST. #47967" on the packaging.

Authorities advise individuals to examine their refrigerators for recalled products and refrain from consuming them. Instead, dispose of the products or return them to the store of purchase. Furthermore, surfaces and containers that may have come into contact with the recalled items should be thoroughly washed with hot, soapy water or cleaned in a dishwasher.

Salmonella bacteria can lead to a gastrointestinal illness known as salmonellosis, causing symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Typically, symptoms manifest within 12 to 72 hours of the infection, lasting around four to seven days. Most individuals recover without medical intervention. However, severe cases may exhibit high fever, aches, headaches, lethargy, rashes, or bloody urine or stool, occasionally resulting in fatal outcomes. Children under five, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of severe salmonellosis infections.