Epidemiology and Infection · 2017 · 49 citations · 8 references
AgricultureFood ScienceMicrobiologyFood SafetyFoodborne Disease EpidemiologyOutbreak InvestigationFood ContaminationFoodborne InfectionsFoodborne PathogensMicrobial ContaminationMicrobial Food SafetyMicrobiological Food SafetyBacterial Contamination Of FoodsBacterial Seed ContaminationFoodborne Bacterial Disease EpidemiologyFoodborne Bacterial PathogensFoodborne Illness EpidemiologyFoodborne Illness Outbreak RecallsOpen-ended InterviewsSalmonella Infections
Salmonella is a leading cause of bacterial foodborne illness. We report the collaborative investigative efforts of US and Canadian public health officials during the 2013-2014 international outbreak of multiple Salmonella serotype infections linked to sprouted chia seed powder. The investigation included open-ended interviews of ill persons, traceback, product testing, facility inspections, and trace forward. Ninety-four persons infected with outbreak strains from 16 states and four provinces were identified; 21% were hospitalized and none died. Fifty-four (96%) of 56 persons who consumed chia seed powder, reported 13 different brands that traced back to a single Canadian firm, distributed by four US and eight Canadian companies. Laboratory testing yielded outbreak strains from leftover and intact product. Contaminated product was recalled. Although chia seed powder is a novel outbreak vehicle, sprouted seeds are recognized as an important cause of foodborne illness; firms should follow available guidance to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination during sprouting.
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M. Kate Thomas, Regan Murray, Logan Flockhart et al. · Foodborne Pathogens and Disease · 2015 · 198 citations · Full text