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France issues health alert after Salmonella outbreak linked to pumpkin seeds
French health and agriculture ministries have issued a major health alert following a Salmonella outbreak linked to pumpkin seeds. Between May and August 2026, at least 81 people across several regions in France contracted salmonellosis, with six individuals requiring hospitalization.
The contaminated products originated from a processing plant in the Lot-et-Garonne department in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. These seeds and seed mixes were primarily distributed through Grand Frais stores, though other supermarket chains also received products from the same supplier. Specific recalled items include Noyeraie du Lander 1kg bags and Vertufood sports mixes. Some products may have been on the market as early as October 2025.
Authorities have advised consumers to stop using the products and return them to the point of sale. While investigations are ongoing to pinpoint the exact source of contamination within the processing facility, officials noted that inspections have not yet yielded a definitive cause. Salmonella typically causes symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, which can be more severe for young children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Entities
France · Grand Frais · Institut Pasteur · Lot-et-Garonne · Noyeraie du Lander · Salmonella Enteritidis · Santé publique France · Vertufood
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The contaminated pumpkin seeds originated from a processor located in the Lot-et-Garonne department. www.dna.fr · www.estrepublicain.fr · www.ledauphine.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Investigations indicate that contaminated pumpkin seeds are the source of the outbreak. www.dna.fr · www.estrepublicain.fr · www.ledauphine.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Six people were hospitalized and two visited the emergency department due to the infection. www.dna.fr · www.estrepublicain.fr · www.ledauphine.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Salmonella strains were isolated from patients between May 3 and August 12. www.dna.fr · www.estrepublicain.fr · www.ledauphine.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Health authorities have identified 81 cases of salmonellosis linked to a single strain of Salmonella Enteritidis. www.dna.fr · www.estrepublicain.fr · www.ledauphine.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Grand Frais and other retailers have initiated the withdrawal and recall of the affected products. www.dna.fr · www.estrepublicain.fr · www.ledauphine.com