Atlanta, Georgia – A nationwide salmonella outbreak has been linked to charcuterie meats sold at popular retailers Costco and Sam’s Club, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC has been investigating the outbreak across 22 states since January 5, and the latest update revealed an additional 23 illnesses, bringing the total number of cases to 47.
Ten individuals have been hospitalized so far due to this outbreak, as reported by the CDC. As a precautionary measure, the CDC is warning consumers against consuming certain charcuterie products sold at Costco and Sam’s Club.
Specifically, the CDC advises against consuming the Busseto brand “Charcuterie Sampler,” available at Sam’s Club. Sold as a twin-pack of two 9-ounce packages, this sampler includes prosciutto, sweet soppressata, and dry coppa. Regardless of the lot code, the CDC recommends avoiding this product.
Additionally, the Fratelli Beretta brand “Antipasto Gran Beretta” sold at Costco should be avoided. Similar to the Busseto brand, this product comes in a twin-pack containing two 12-ounce packages. It includes black pepper coated dry salami, Italian dry salami, dry coppa, and prosciutto. The CDC emphasizes that any lot code of these packages may be contaminated.
For those who have already purchased these affected products, the CDC advises disposing of them immediately and refraining from consumption. Businesses are also urged to refrain from serving or selling these products. Furthermore, if any of the contaminated products have come into contact with surfaces or containers, the CDC recommends washing them with hot soapy water or running them through a dishwasher.
In addition to the current investigation, health officials are exploring the possibility of other products being contaminated. The CDC, in a news release, shared that their updated information was obtained through interviews with individuals who fell ill after consuming the charcuterie meats. Out of those interviewed, four individuals reported purchasing Fratelli Beretta brand products before becoming sick. Three others had purchased the Busseto brand sampler, and two individuals could not recall the exact brand of charcuterie meats they bought from Sam’s Club.
Symptoms of salmonella typically manifest between six hours to six days after consuming the bacteria. Common symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.
It is essential for consumers to remain cautious and follow the guidance provided by the CDC to prevent further cases of illness related to this outbreak.
[Byline: This article was written by Rebecca Cohen, a breaking news reporter for NBC News.]