Salmonella Outbreak linked to Eggshell Membrane Food Supplements, UK

United Kingdom

####Update November 27th, 2025:
UKHSA, FSA, and FSS continue supporting Public Health Scotland in the investigation of the multi-drug resistant Salmonella cluster linked to eggshell membrane food supplements.

Reference laboratory testing confirmed the following:

- S. Enteritidis strain shows extensive resistance, including to third-generation cephalosporins (bla CTX-M-14), fluoroquinolones, tetracycline, fosfomycin, and colistin.
- S. Othmarschen isolates show no detected antimicrobial resistance.
- S. Livingston isolates show only the intrinsic resistance expected for this serovar.
- Samples also contained multiple ESBL-producing Enterobacterales, including E. coli, Klebsiella spp., and Acinetobacter spp.

So far, four human cases have been confirmed:
- 2 in Scotland (1 S. Othmarschen, 1 S. Enteritidis)
- 2 in England (both S. Enteritidis)

The recalled product remains the same, and public health guidance has not changed. Symptomatic individuals should seek care through their GP, NHS 111, or A&E if severely ill.

Source: UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)


July 31st, 2025:
Public Health Scotland, supported by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the Food Standards Agency (FSA), and Food Standards Scotland (FSS), is investigating a Salmonella outbreak linked to eggshell membrane food supplements. Four people have fallen ill in the UK, with cases reported in both Scotland and England.

The outbreak involves a multi-drug resistant strain of Salmonella, with several serovars detected, including Salmonella Enteritidis, S. Othmarschen, and S. Livingston. These supplements, often consumed for joint health benefits, have been recalled by the FSA due to contamination. The S. Enteritidis strain shows resistance to multiple antibiotics, raising concerns about treatment options. Elderly individuals and those with pre-existing health conditions are at higher risk of severe illness.

The issue was identified through routine testing and reference laboratory analysis, which revealed the presence of multiple drug-resistant Salmonella strains and other bacteria, such as ESBL-producing Enterobacterales. The investigation continues as health agencies work to prevent further cases and ensure public safety.



Source: www.gov.uk/government/publications/health-protection-report-volume-19-2025/hpr-volume-19-issue-7-news-31-july-2025