Seven people have been hospitalized following a Salmonella outbreak linked to home delivery meals from Metabolic Meals, impacting individuals across 10 states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that at least 16 people have been infected, with seven requiring hospitalization. The outbreak, which occurred during the week of July 28, has raised concerns about food safety and the potential risks associated with meal delivery services.
The CDC stated that the meals in question were produced and delivered by Metabolic Meals, and customers who purchased specific meal types were directly contacted regarding the outbreak. The affected meals include Four Cheese Tortellini with Pesto Sauce and Grilled Chicken, Low Carb Chicken Teriyaki and Vegetables, Black Garlic & Ranch Chicken Tenders with Roasted Vegetables, and Sliced Top Sirloin with Roasted Peanut Sauce and Summer Vegetables. Additional lot codes associated with the outbreak were also identified.
Individuals impacted by the outbreak reside in various states including California, Missouri, Georgia, Minnesota, Texas, Arkansas, Illinois, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and Washington. Health officials have highlighted that the actual number of those affected might be higher, as it typically takes several weeks to confirm cases related to an outbreak. It is crucial for individuals who have consumed these meals to monitor their health and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as diarrhea, fever exceeding 102°F, prolonged diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, excessive vomiting, or signs of dehydration.
Symptoms of Salmonella poisoning typically manifest within a few hours to several days after exposure to the bacteria. The recent outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough food safety measures, especially in meal preparation and delivery services. This incident comes on the heels of a similar outbreak involving Dubai chocolate, underscoring the ongoing challenges in food safety and regulatory oversight.
Metabolic Meals has assured its cooperation with investigators to address the situation promptly and is actively engaging with affected customers. Initiatives such as meal recalls and customer notifications are crucial steps in containing the outbreak and preventing further spread of the bacteria. The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely and advises individuals to stay informed through official channels to receive updates and guidance on necessary precautions.
As investigations into the Salmonella outbreak progress, the focus remains on ensuring public health and safety. The incident highlights the importance of stringent quality control measures in food production and distribution to prevent such occurrences in the future. Consumers are urged to remain vigilant regarding food safety practices and to report any concerning symptoms or issues promptly. As the situation evolves, health authorities are working diligently to mitigate the impact of the outbreak and safeguard the well-being of the affected individuals.