Brussels, February 2025 – Despite a recent spike in salmonella cases in Belgium, national food safety authorities insist that this does not indicate a decline in food safety standards. The Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC) has reassured consumers that strict monitoring systems remain in place.
Since the start of 2025, nearly 70 people in Belgium have been affected by an outbreak of a rising strain of salmonella, according to a statement issued by the FASFC earlier this month.
The outbreak has been linked to free-range eggs produced by Depo-Ei CV, prompting an initial product recall that was expanded last week.
Salmonella, a bacteria responsible for salmonellosis—a form of food poisoning—affects around 3,000 people in Belgium annually, though experts from the National Reference Centre suggest this is likely an underestimation.
While most cases result in mild symptoms requiring no medical intervention, severe infections may necessitate antibiotic treatment.
The precise causes of the current outbreak are still under investigation. However, health experts stress that the presence of salmonella in food does not automatically indicate hygiene violations.
“They’re a natural part of [an animal’s] system; it lives in their flora, so it’s not unusual that we find traces in meat or eggs,” said FASFC spokesperson Hélène Bonte.
Understanding Salmonella Contamination
Salmonella is primarily transmitted to humans through oral ingestion of contaminated food, particularly raw or undercooked poultry products and eggs.
Contamination can also occur when food comes into contact with infected surfaces or water. In rare cases, the bacteria can be spread through pets.
To mitigate risks, Belgium employs robust prevention systems. Farmers are required to conduct regular analyses of their products, while the FASFC performs additional testing.
“The farmers have to do analysis on their products to keep an eye on the possibility of salmonella, so they have to control it themselves. But the FASFC also does these tests,” Bonte explained.
Belgium’s food safety record remains strong. While the FASFC’s 2024 report has yet to be published, 2023 data revealed that of the 6,111 salmonella analyses conducted on food products, 98.7% were compliant with safety regulations.
EU Hygiene Regulations and Consumer Responsibility
Beyond national efforts, the European Union mandates stringent hygiene legislation for food operators to minimize the risk of outbreaks. Specific salmonella reduction programs targeting poultry farms across member states have proven effective in decreasing human infections.
However, consumer awareness and adherence to food safety practices are also crucial in preventing infections.
Bonte advised consumers to follow basic hygiene guidelines, including proper food storage, avoiding cross-contamination, thoroughly cooking meat and eggs, and washing hands before and during food preparation.
While the recent salmonella outbreak has led to a precautionary egg recall, authorities emphasize that Belgium’s food safety framework remains robust, ensuring consumer protection through rigorous monitoring and prevention strategies.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
