Food manufacturers have recalled 56 types of pre-packed sandwiches wraps and salads in major supermarkets including Aldi, Tesco, Morrison, Co-op, Asda, because of possible contamination with E-coli bacteria.It is understood the affected items are containing salad leaves. Across UK at least 211 people are known to be affected by E-coli currently up from 113 last week, with at lest 67 people admitted to hospital, according to the UK Health Security Agency.

One of the suppliers inovlved, Greencore Group, has recalled 45 different products so far, including  an Aldi Chicken salad sandwich, Tesco tuna Crunch sub and Tesco spicy bean wraps.

Dean Whitby head of incidents at the Food Standards Agency, said “This is a complex investigation, and we have worked swiftly with the relevant businesses and the local authorities concerned to narrow down the wide range of foods consumed to a small number of salad leaf products that have been used in sandwiches and wraps. Infections caused by E-coli STEC bacteria can cause severe bloody diarrhoea and in some cases, more serious complications. We therefore advise any customers who have any of these products not to eat them”.

Tests have shown that the type in this outbreak is called E-coli STEC O1445. It produces a Shiga Toxin which can attack the lining of the gut. Symptoms can include diarrhoea that can be bloody, stomach cramps, fever and vomiting. Most people recover well, but some such as young children or people with underlying health conditions can become very unwell. It is important to drink plenty of fluids, as diarrhoea can lead to dehydration. A small number may go to develop a serious complications including haemolytic uraemia syndrome (HUS) which can damage the kidneys. Regularly wash you hands with warm water and soap – alcohol gels do not kill all bugs that cause diarrhoea illness. Wash fruit and vegetables and cook food to the temperature suggested.