Some frozen microwave meals sold at IGA stores and independent retailers have been linked to Salmonella gastroenteritis cases in our region.

Salmonellosis symptoms include fever, headache, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

NSW Health is urging consumers who have any CORE Powerfoods frozen microwave meals to either dispose of them or return them for a refund.

Core Ingredients is conducting a recall of Core Powerfoods frozen meals, 310g or 350g - Going Nuts, Deep South Chilli, Muay Thai Meatballs, Holy Meatballs, Naked Chicken, Seismic Chicken, Old School, and Smokey Mountain Meatballs. 

The products have been available for sale at IGAs in NSW, ACT, VIC and NT; Independent retailers in NSW, ACT, QLD, VIC, SA, NT and WA; and Coles nationally. The Best Before are from 26/08/2020 – 4/10/2020 inclusive.

At least 10 NSW residents are believed to have developed Salmonella infection after consuming this product and investigations are ongoing.

NSW Health is working closely with other states and territories to investigate other infections of this unusual Salmonella type, Salmonella Weltevreden, that are thought to be associated with this product. 

The cause of the contamination is still under investigation.

NSW Health’s Executive Director of Health Protection, Dr Jeremy McAnulty said salmonellosis can be quite severe and people sometimes have to be hospitalised to manage dehydration, particularly in young babies, elderly people and those with weakened immune systems.

“Salmonellosis symptoms include fever, headache, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting,” Dr McAnulty said.

“Symptoms usually start around six to 72 hours after the contaminated food is eaten and usually last for four to seven days, but can continue for much longer.

“It is important that people do not prepare food for others while they are unwell with salmonellosis and as a precaution for 48 hours after symptoms have passed.”

Dr McAnulty said food must be cooked thoroughly to kill Salmonella bacteria. 

Microwaves are a quick and convenient way to cook food, however, if they are not used correctly, they can cook food unevenly.

“Frozen food may not be ready to eat and should always be cooked thoroughly following manufacturer instructions. 

“The longer food is left at room temperature the more the Salmonella bacteria will multiply. 

“Refrigerated food should be kept at less than five degrees Celsius and hot food should be kept above 60 degrees Celsius,” he said.

Cases reside across NSW, including in Northern NSW, greater Sydney, the Central Coast, Newcastle and the Murrumbidgee.

For information about the recall go to:

http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/industry/foodrecalls/recalls/Pages/Core-Powerfoods-frozen-meals.aspx

For more information on Salmonellosis go to:  

https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/Salmonellosis.aspx