LONDON — Three deaths are being investigated in connection with a listeria outbreak tied to desserts supplied to NHS hospitals and care homes, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The agency is examining five cases of listeriosis from May to December 2024, including three deaths. Listeria was found in chocolate and vanilla, and strawberry and vanilla mousses produced by Cool Delight Desserts, though the products have not been confirmed as the source.
The bacteria levels were below the legal threshold for healthy individuals, the PA news agency reported. As a precaution, the Food Standards Agency has removed the desserts from the supply chain.
The affected patients, aged 68 to 89, had underlying health conditions and were in hospital at the time. The outbreak was detected during routine surveillance at an NHS hospital in South West England in February 2025.
Dr Gauri Godbole of the UKHSA said NHS trusts and care providers were advised to stop serving these desserts. While most listeria infections cause mild symptoms, vulnerable individuals, like the elderly or those with weakened immune systems, are at risk of severe illness.
Listeriosis can also cause serious illness in pregnant women and newborns. The NHS warns that listeria is often found in chilled, ready-to-eat foods.
The BBC has contacted Cool Delight Desserts and the NHS for comment.
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