Botulism risk prompts recall in Italy

A man dies and nine others are hospitalized after eating a broccoli sandwich, sparking a nationwide recall and a botulism alert.

Botulism linked broccoli sandwich kills man and hospitalizes nine in Italy

A 52-year-old man named Luigi Di Sarno died after eating a broccoli and sausage sandwich from a food truck along the Diamante seafront in Cosenza province. Nine others, including two teenagers, were admitted to the intensive care unit at Annunziata Hospital after falling ill. Investigators are exploring a link to botulism toxins from Clostridium botulinum and the group’s shared meal before symptoms began.

Health officials have launched a mass recall and issued warnings as the Calabria Region's Department of Health and Welfare activated an emergency procedure. The Paola Public Prosecutor's Office has called for the immediate seizure of any suspected product. The national response centers coordinate through the Poison Control Center in Pavia. Unverified reports of another death in Cagliari linked to a guacamole taco circulated, but authorities say those reports are not confirmed.

The incident shows how a local health scare can quickly become national news when a single food item is involved. It raises questions about oversight of street vendors and how recalls are issued across borders of different regions. Clear and timely communication from authorities will be essential to prevent panic and misinformation.

Public health officials also face pressure to provide accurate information while avoiding alarm. If more cases emerge or the cause remains unclear, officials must balance protecting consumers with keeping the public calm. The episode could influence future rules for mobile food sellers and boost botulism surveillance and testing.

Highlights

The coming days will reveal how quickly authorities can restore confidence and strengthen safety nets.