Food safety authorities across Europe are investigating a large Salmonella outbreak that has sickened more than 100 people, with evidence pointing to certain chicken-flavoured instant noodle products as a possible source. Health experts say children and teenagers have been affected more frequently than other age groups, prompting renewed advice on safe food preparation and hygiene.
The outbreak has spread across multiple countries, including the United Kingdom, where public health officials continue to support the ongoing international investigation. While investigators have identified a likely connection to specific instant noodle products, authorities stress that the investigation is still underway and the exact source of contamination has not yet been fully confirmed.
According to health authorities, the outbreak has been developing since November 2025. As of June 27, 2026, officials had confirmed 106 Salmonella infections linked to the same bacterial strain.
Of those infected:
Public health experts say the unusually high number of infections among children and young people is one of the defining features of this outbreak.
The confirmed cases have been identified in:
Health agencies continue monitoring for additional infections while tracing the distribution of potentially contaminated products.
Investigators believe chicken-flavoured instant noodles from one manufacturer may be connected to the outbreak. However, authorities have not publicly identified the brand while investigations continue.
Laboratory testing detected the outbreak strain in both chicken-flavoured and hot chicken-flavoured instant noodle products sampled in Germany and Lithuania.
Officials say these findings suggest contamination may have occurred during production, although further evidence is needed before reaching a final conclusion.
Investigators are also examining whether processed chicken products, including items such as chicken nuggets, may have contributed to some infections because not every affected person reported eating instant noodles.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) are working alongside European health authorities to investigate the outbreak.
Officials say they are assessing whether cases reported in the UK are connected to products that have already been recalled in other European countries.
The investigation remains active, and further updates are expected as laboratory testing and food tracing continue.
Salmonella is a bacterial infection that usually causes food poisoning after contaminated food or drinks are consumed.
The bacteria commonly spread through:
Although most healthy people recover without medical treatment, Salmonella infections can become severe in vulnerable individuals.
Symptoms typically develop between two and five days after exposure, although illness may begin as early as six hours after consuming contaminated food.
Common symptoms include:
Most infections improve within four to seven days.
Staying hydrated is especially important because diarrhoea and vomiting can lead to dehydration.
While many people recover without complications, certain groups face a greater risk of severe illness.
Higher-risk groups include:
These individuals are more likely to require hospital care if dehydration or bloodstream infection develops.
Investigators have not yet determined why children represent such a large proportion of confirmed cases.
Several factors may contribute, including:
Researchers continue to study the outbreak for clearer answers.
One important finding from investigators is that some infected individuals reported eating instant noodles without fully cooking them.
Health authorities remind consumers that many instant noodles are not ready-to-eat products. Although they may appear pre-cooked, they are designed to be prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Failing to cook the noodles or seasoning properly may increase the risk of foodborne illness if contamination is present.
To reduce the risk of Salmonella infection, health experts recommend:
Simple food hygiene measures remain one of the most effective ways to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Investigators warn that instant noodles often remain in household cupboards for months.
Because of their long shelf life, contaminated products could still be present in homes even after recalls have been announced.
Consumers should check food safety alerts issued by their local authorities and follow any recall instructions if affected products are identified.
The bacterial strain involved in this outbreak has been identified as Salmonella Stanley (S. Stanley ST2045).
Scientists continue tracing where contamination may have occurred.
Although laboratory testing has strengthened the link between certain instant noodle products and the outbreak, investigators say the exact contamination point has not yet been established.
Authorities are also examining whether additional food products could be involved.
Anyone experiencing severe food poisoning symptoms should seek medical advice, especially if symptoms include:
Parents should seek prompt medical attention if young children show signs of dehydration, such as reduced urination, unusual sleepiness, or dry mouth.
The ongoing Salmonella outbreak highlights the importance of proper food preparation, even for products that appear convenient or partially cooked. While investigators continue working to identify the exact source of contamination, consumers can reduce their risk by following cooking instructions carefully, maintaining good kitchen hygiene, and staying informed about official food safety recalls. Anyone who develops severe or persistent symptoms after eating potentially contaminated food should seek medical advice promptly.
This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Information is based on reports from public health authorities available at the time of writing. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms of food poisoning, consult a qualified healthcare professional or seek emergency medical care immediately.
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