The European Union has issued a “serious” food safety alert after detecting E.coli bacteria in frozen Spanish burgers. The Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) flagged the contaminated products on Friday, December 20, during routine testing of minced meat used for smash burgers.
Smash burgers, a popular recent trend, are made by pressing minced meat directly onto a hot surface. This cooking method requires less time but can increase the risk of foodborne illness if the meat is contaminated.
European health officials detected toxin-producing strains of E.coli capable of causing severe symptoms, such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, especially when the meat is undercooked. The bacteria, commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals, can release shiga toxins linked to these illnesses.
Products await withdrawal
The EU has called for the immediate removal of affected batches from all distribution channels. Meanwhile, it remains unclear whether this has been fully implemented. Authorities continue to warn consumers of the potential risks and emphasize the importance of thoroughly cooking meat products.
What is E.coli and its symptoms?
E.coli (Escherichia coli) is a type of bacteria that naturally lives in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless, certain types, such as those producing shiga toxins, can cause serious foodborne illnesses. Symptoms of infection include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, complications such as kidney failure may occur, particularly in vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. Thorough cooking of meat is essential to kill the bacteria and prevent illness.
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