Salmonella cases in UK likely to rise until source of outbreak is found

Experts say imported eggs served in cafes and restaurants may be behind hundreds of infections and one death Salmonella cases in the UK are expected to rise until the common source is identified, something that is notoriously difficult to establish, experts have warned. There have been 474 confirmed cases and one death linked to the current outbreak, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), with the latest investigations suggesting it is associated with eating imported eggs in cafes and restaurants. About 1.6bn eggs are imported to the UK every year, according to the British Egg Industry Council, with the number having risen 60% since 2021. The link to eggs consumed outside of the home is consistent with imported eggs commonly being used in catering, according to Paul Wigley, a professor of animal microbial ecosystems at the University of Bristol. Wigley said: “Bought in bulk these eggs are cheaper than UK lion mark eggs and so can end up being used in schools and nursing homes along with cafes, restaurants and takeaways.

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