France Launches Pumpkin Seed Recall After 81 Salmonella Cases Confirmed

While Salmonella is commonly associated with raw meat, eggs, and dairy products, plant-based foods—including fruits and vegetables—can also serve as vectors for the bacterium.

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The latest instance of this risk occurred in France, where health and agriculture authorities announced on Friday that 81 individuals across multiple regions had contracted salmonellosis between May and August following the consumption of pumpkin seeds.

A major health alert

Officials stated that the contaminated products originated from a processing facility in Lot-et-Garonne, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and were primarily distributed through Grand Frais stores, as well as several other major supermarket chains supplied by the same provider.

Among the interviewed patients, six were hospitalized, and two required emergency care. However, health authorities confirmed that all affected individuals have shown symptom improvement and have been discharged to return home.

The affected products have been immediately recalled. Investigations are currently underway to trace the precise source of the contamination. Although an inspection has been conducted at the processing facility, the exact origin of the contamination remains unidentified, authorities noted.

A common infection: almost 200,000 cases recorded each year

Salmonellosis is a common illness, with nearly 200,000 cases recorded annually in France. The infection typically manifests as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Health officials warn that symptoms can be particularly severe for vulnerable groups, including young children, pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and older adults. If no symptoms develop within seven days of consumption, medical consultation is generally unnecessary. According to Santé publique France, approximately 198,000 cases occur yearly, with an estimated 183,000 attributed to foodborne transmission.

Outbreak still ongoing in Belgium

France is not alone in managing recent Salmonella challenges. In Belgium, an outbreak linked to eggs from a poultry farm had affected at least 312 people as of September 2, according to Sciensano, the national public health institute. Up to two million potentially contaminated eggs were distributed in Belgium and Luxembourg, prompting recalls in both nations. Health officials caution that the total case count may rise, as many individuals with mild or asymptomatic infections have not been tested.

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