Seven cases of foodborne botulism have been reported in Spain, with an additional two cases in Italy, all linked to the consumption of Spanish omelet (tortilla de patata). Spanish health officials are investigating the outbreak, and the Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) has issued a warning to the public.
The affected individuals reported consuming different packaged brands of Spanish omelet purchased from various supermarkets in the days leading up to their illness. The outbreak has been traced to products consumed between June 19 and July 5, with symptom onset dates ranging from June 21 to July 10.
Possible symptoms of botulism
Symptoms of botulism can manifest within 6 to 36 hours after consuming contaminated food and may include double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing or breathing, paralysis, a thick-feeling tongue, dry mouth, and muscle weakness. Botulism is a rare but serious condition caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which can lead to paralysis of respiratory muscles and potentially be life-threatening.
Several supermarket brands have been linked to the outbreak, including Palacios, Chef Select, Auchan, Eroski, Unide, Consum, DIA, Ametller, Condis, El Corte Ingles, Carrefour, Alipende, Grupo IFA, Rikissimo, Netto, Salling, Intermarche, Naysa, Gestus, and Te gusta products. Grupo Empresarial Palacios Alimentación, a company associated with the outbreak, has taken measures to address the situation, including halting production and removing affected products from store shelves.
Preventive Action
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the outbreak, working closely with the company involved to assess production, distribution, storage, and transport processes. Consumers are advised not to consume the implicated products and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms after consuming any of the mentioned brands of Spanish omelet.
In light of this outbreak, Spanish officials have reminded the public of the importance of properly storing and handling food products, especially during hot weather, and following the instructions and expiry dates indicated by manufacturers.
The situation is still developing, and authorities are actively monitoring and investigating any suspected cases. If you or someone you know has consumed the affected products and experienced symptoms of botulism, please seek immediate medical attention. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.
Source-Seven botulism cases linked to Spanish dish | Food Safety News