In the largest chocolate recall in history, coordinated efforts across Europe successfully addressed an outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to Kinder Chocolate Eggs from a Belgian factory. The outbreak resulted in 455 confirmed cases across 17 countries, with a significant impact on children under 10, who represented 86% of those affected. The UK reported the highest number of infections (128 cases) and initiated the alarm on February 17, 2022. Investigations led to the identification of a Belgian factory as the source of the outbreak, prompting the UK and Ireland’s food safety authorities to recall specific Kinder products on April 2, 2022. Following confirmation of the factory’s link, a global recall was issued, affecting 130 countries. Investigations discovered contamination issues in the factory, particularly in a tank for anhydrous milk fat. Stringent cleaning and disinfection measures followed, leading to the factory’s re-opening in June 2022 under conditions. The outbreak highlighted the critical role of early detection and coordinated responses among public health experts, which ultimately prevented a larger, potentially devastating global outbreak. Dr. Takkinen, an expert from the ECDC, emphasized the importance of collaboration in mitigating the impacts of such foodborne illnesses.
