Contaminated Mayonnaise Sparks Recall in Saudi After Food Poisoning Kills 1, Hospitalises Many
Saudi authorities have halted the distribution and recalled contaminated mayonnaise after a food poisoning incident linked to a Hamburgini restaurant in Riyadh.
The Food and Drug Authority identified a connection between the outbreak of food poisoning cases and the mayonnaise served at the restaurant chain. Laboratory analysis revealed the presence of the Clostridium botulinum bacteria, the cause of botulism, in a sample of ‘BON TUM’ mayonnaise served at the said restaurant.
Last week, one person died and 75 were hospitalised due to food poisoning in a restaurant chain. From the 75 cases, 69 of those who fell sick were Saudis, while six were expats.
Responding swiftly, the ministry, in cooperation with the Food and Drug Authority and other relevant bodies, implemented a series of measures:
Product recall: The distribution of ‘Bon Tum’ mayonnaise has been halted nationwide. The product will be removed from markets and food establishments in all Saudi cities. Additionally, the factory producing the mayonnaise has been shut down pending legal action.
Product destroyed: All remaining stock of the product at the factory, regardless of batch or expiration date, will be withdrawn and destroyed.
Customer notification: The factory’s customers, particularly restaurants and food establishments, have been asked to destroy this type of mayonnaise in their possession.
Enhanced monitoring: Regulatory agencies will intensify monitoring and inspection campaigns across the country. Municipal and relevant authorities will conduct targeted campaigns to ensure that all food products are safe to consume.
The ministry and concerned authorities urge the public to rely on official sources for information and avoid spreading rumours or unsubstantiated news.
