London, UK – March 20, 2025 – A deadly listeria outbreak has been linked to a dessert supplied to NHS hospitals and care homes across the UK, resulting in the deaths of three people. Health authorities have launched an urgent investigation to determine the full extent of the contamination and prevent further cases.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed that multiple individuals have been affected by listeriosis, a serious bacterial infection caused by consuming contaminated food. The outbreak has been traced back to a specific batch of pre-packaged desserts distributed to several healthcare facilities.
A spokesperson for the UKHSA stated, “We are working closely with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and NHS Trusts to identify the source of contamination and ensure that all affected products are removed from circulation. Patients and staff are advised to remain vigilant for symptoms.”
Listeria infection poses a severe risk to vulnerable individuals, including hospital patients, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and, in severe cases, life-threatening complications such as meningitis and sepsis.
The FSA has issued a recall for the implicated dessert products and advised the public not to consume them. Investigations are also underway to determine whether further batches may have been contaminated.
The affected food supplier has temporarily halted production and expressed deep regret over the incident. “We take food safety extremely seriously and are cooperating fully with health authorities to investigate and resolve this matter,” a company spokesperson said.
Families of the deceased have called for stricter food safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Legal experts suggest that affected families may have grounds for legal action against those responsible for the contamination.
Authorities urge anyone who may have consumed the contaminated dessert and is experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention immediately. More updates are expected as the investigation progresses.