Warning as food poisoning infections reach highest level in a decade
Tips to avoid food poisoning as infections spike
- Food poisoning infections in England, particularly Salmonella and Campylobacter, have reached their highest levels in a decade, with a 17.1 per cent increase in reported cases between 2023 and 2024.
- Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) indicates campylobacter cases rose to 70,352 in 2024 and salmonella cases increased to 10,388, with children under 10 and adults aged 50-79 disproportionately affected.
- These infections are typically contracted through contaminated food such as undercooked poultry, raw produce, or unpasteurised dairy, as well as via close contact with infected individuals or kitchen cross-contamination.
- In response to the escalating numbers, the UKHSA and Food Standards Agency (FSA) are reminding the public to adopt robust hygiene practices, including proper chilling, cleaning, cooking, and avoiding cross-contamination (the 4Cs).
- Public health advice also stresses thorough hand washing, avoiding food preparation when ill, and not returning to work or school until at least 48 hours after symptoms have subsided to prevent further transmission.