A tragic food poisoning incident in southwest Italy has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and hospitalized 14 others, including two teenagers. The victims are believed to have consumed contaminated sausage and turnip top paninis from a food truck near the town of Diamante in Calabria. This outbreak marks the second case of toxic botulism reported in Italy within a month.
The deceased, identified as Luigi di Sarno, aged 52, and Tamara D’Acunto, aged 45, fell ill shortly after eating the tainted sandwiches. Di Sarno, an artist, was discharged from the hospital despite feeling unwell and subsequently passed away two days later, according to reports from The Telegraph. Authorities have confirmed that all victims had ordered the same sandwich, which consisted of grilled sausage and cime di rapa, also known as turnip tops.
Investigation Underway
The food truck, owned by Giuseppe Santonocito, aged 33, has been seized as part of an investigation into the outbreak. Both Santonocito and his three employees, who allegedly prepared the contaminated food, are currently under scrutiny. Officials are also conducting a nationwide seizure of the paninis, which were commercially produced, and are examining other food items sold at the truck.
Santonocito reportedly purchased the ingredients for the paninis in late July and only had enough stock to prepare “six or seven” sandwiches before running out. His lawyer stated, “He is psychologically devastated. He has worked for around nine years in the food sector and is well respected. He is convinced that the contamination was already in the products that he served.”
Health Response and Botulism Risks
In addition to the food truck owner, five doctors who treated the victims at two separate hospitals are being investigated for potential delays in their diagnoses. Botulism, which is caused by a bacterial infection, is often linked to food poisoning and can lead to severe consequences, including muscle paralysis and death. Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the seriousness of this illness.
This incident follows another botulism outbreak in Italy, which occurred in late July on the island of Sardinia, resulting in one fatality linked to spoiled guacamole consumed at a festival. Seven others, including an 11-year-old boy, required medical attention for food poisoning.
In response to the dual outbreaks, Italy’s Ministry of Health has activated all necessary health protocols to ensure that affected patients have immediate access to life-saving treatments. The situation remains critical as health officials work to prevent further incidents and protect public safety.
