Hospital admissions due to food poisoning, notably salmonella infections, have hit a record high in the UK, with experts calling attention to the crucial role of hygiene practices and regulatory standards in the wake of Brexit.
Hospital admissions for food poisoning in the UK, particularly for salmonella infections, have reached a record high, with 1,468 admissions reported between April 2022 and March 2023. This surge in cases has been linked to several factors, including changes in regulatory focus and standards post-Brexit, the impact of importation checks, and reduced budgets for local authorities. Health experts have emphasized the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices, such as proper handwashing and safe food handling, to prevent infections. Salmonella, known to cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, mainly spreads through contaminated food and water, including raw or undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, unpasteurised milk, and fruits and vegetables.
Similarly, in the northeast United States, there has been an increase in norovirus cases, known for causing stomach bugs marked by diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration. The virus spreads through contaminated food, liquids, or surfaces, with experts recommending frequent hand washing with soap and water as a key preventive measure. Unlike salmonella, there is no specific medication for norovirus, and staying hydrated is advised to manage the symptoms.
The rise in foodborne illnesses has prompted concerns about food safety standards, particularly with regards to imported poultry products. Professor Tim Lang, a food policy expert, highlighted a weakening in the regulatory focus on food safety in the UK post-Brexit, prompting a discussion on the need for rigorous food safety measures. The public is urged to engage in safe food practices, including thorough cooking of meat and correct storage of leftovers, to mitigate the risk of food poisoning. These preventative measures are deemed crucial for protecting vulnerable groups who may be more susceptible to severe illness from foodborne diseases.
