Three people died of food poisoning after eating desserts provided to NHS hospitals

Three people died after consuming chocolate desserts contaminated with deadly Listeria bacteria, which were offered to NHS hospitals.

According to the UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) and public health authorities, the cases have spread throughout the UK rather than in a specific area.

Officials suspect mousse and ice cream made from cool joy desserts are the source of the bug outbreak that causes diarrhea.

Now, the Food Standards Agency has recalled all the refrigerated desserts the company offers to the NHS and nursing homes, including ice cream, ice cream rolls, mousse and yogurt.

According to an alert sent to NHS Trusts, hospital staff have been urged to check the ward refrigerator to ensure product removal.

Patients were identified between May and December 2024, with all patients aged between 68 and 89 years.

Yorkshire and Humber reported two cases, one in the northwest and the other in the West Midlands and the fifth in Wales.

All victims have potential immune smart health status and are hospitalized.

Health chiefs are continuing to investigate the outbreak to determine whether any other source should be blamed.

During a routine test at an NHS hospital in southwest England last month, the bacteria was detected in two different mousse flavors – chocolate and vanilla, strawberry and vanilla.

FSA defines Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria) as a foodborne bacteria that causes a disease called Listeria.

“Case of Lister’s disease is rare, and in healthy adults and children, Listeria usually causes few or no symptoms,” the health agency said.

“However, some people are at a higher risk of getting sick and having a serious illness (invasive Lister’s disease).

Levels of Listeria monocytogenes are below regulatory thresholds, but the FSA notes that “patients with severe immunity impaired in hospitals and other healthcare settings” are “more likely to have severe symptoms due to Listeria infection.”

A representative from Cool Delight Desserts told Food Safety News that the company is having ongoing discussions with the FSA.