CDC: Fratelli Beretta brand antipasto linked to multi-state salmonella outbreak

Aug. 26 (UPI) -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday identified a brand of Italian meats linked to a multi-state salmonella outbreak.

The agency said the illnesses were linked to Fratelli Beretta brand prepackaged uncured antipasto trays with "best by" dates on or before Feb. 11, 2022.

"Ill people reported eating Fratelli Beretta brand Uncured Antipasto trays before they got sick. The investigation is ongoing to determine if additional products are linked to the illness," the CDC said.

Fratelli Beretta brand products are sold nationwide in vacuum-sealed plastic packages and can include uncured salami, prosciutto, coppa, or soppressata.

On Wednesday, the CDC reported that a total of 36 people across 17 states fell ill and 12 were hospitalized in outbreaks of two strains of salmonella including Typhimurium and Salmonella Infantis.

The CDC recommended that consumers throw away affected products and other prepackaged Italian-style meats if they are unsure of the brand even if some were eaten and no one who consumed them got sick.

It also suggested that consumers wash any items, containers and surfaces that may have touched the products using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.

Anyone experiencing severe salmonella symptoms such as diarrhea lasting more than three days without improving or featuring blood, fever higher than 102 degrees, difficulty keeping liquids down without vomiting or signs of dehydration was urged to contact their healthcare provider.

Businesses were encouraged not to sell Fratelli Beretta brand prepackaged uncured antipasto trays and wash and sanitize containers or surfaces they may have come in contact with.

Italian-style deli meats sliced at a deli are not affected by the advisory.