Hepatitis A infection wave (hepatitis A) in the Netherlands caused concern besides in Poland. It turned out that the origin of the problem could be frozen blueberries originating in Polandwhich went on the Albert Heijn network. Therefore, questions arise as to whether contaminated fruit could besides be found in Polish stores.
What do we know about the infected batch of blueberries?
Dutch sanitary services confirmed that contaminated frozen blueberries came from Poland. They were sold online. Albert Heijn, 1 of the largest Dutch supermarket chains.
- Number of customers who bought contaminated fruit: estimation 120 000 people
- Number of confirmed hepatitis A infections: respective twelve cases, nevertheless the number may increase
- Virus risk: Hepatitis A virus may lead to serious liver complications
Could contaminated blueberries have gone to Polish stores?
Faced With increasing Concern Polish trade networks powerfully guarantee that the contaminated batch did not enter national distribution. Both Ladybug and Lidl reported that they did not cooperate with the supplier whose products were withdrawn in the Netherlands.
- Ladybug: “We do not sale blueberries from this supplier. All products shall undergo strict checks.’
- Lidl Poland: “Our fruit comes only from proven suppliers and is regularly examined.”
In addition, Polish sanitary services are constantly monitoring the situation to prevent possible threat.
Planters defend Polish quality
Association of Polish Borrowers spoke on the matter, stressing that production of blueberries in Poland is taking place in accordance with strict standards GlobalGAP.
“Our plantations are under constant supervision. Workers are regularly trained in hygiene during harvesting. We do not have detailed information whether the contamination took place in Poland or at a later phase of distribution" - he said Bartholomew Milczareka typical of the association.
Experts indicate that hepatitis A can get into the fruit at various stages:
During harvesting – if workers do not comply with hygiene rules
In the irrigation process – if contaminated water is used
At the freezing and packaging stage, if there are errors in sterilisation
What are the symptoms of hepatitis A?
Hepatitis And this is an infectious illness that attacks the liver and can lead to serious complications. Signs of infection happen 15 to 50 days after ingestion of the contaminated product and may include:
- weakness and fatigue,
- nausea and vomiting,
- abdominal pain,
- yellow skin and white eyes,
- dark urine.
The illness can be peculiarly dangerous for older people and people with impaired immunity.
How to avoid infection?
Although the hazard of infection through products in Polish stores is minimal, it is worth following respective rules:
Wash your fruit and vegetables thoroughly before you eatEven if they're frozen.
Avoid eating natural products from untested sources.
Cooking and baking – advanced temperature destroys hepatitis A virus.
Keep Your Hands Clean – hand washing is simply a basic form of protection against many viruses.
Consider vaccination against hepatitis Aif you frequently consume natural fruit and vegetables.
Are consumers concerned?
For now. There is no evidence that contaminated blueberries went to Poland. Trade networks and sanitary institutions guarantee that the quality control strategy in Poland is high. Nevertheless, care should be taken to apply basic hygiene rules, especially erstwhile consuming natural products.
Continued here:
Contaminated blueberries went to Poland. Be careful in the store.
