Unsure about source of your romaine lettuce? Throw it away, says AVA amid US E coli outbreak

SINGAPORE – Consumers in Singapore who have bought romaine lettuce and are uncertain about its source are advised to throw it away as a precaution, the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) said on Wednesday (Nov 21).

US authorities are investigating an outbreak of E coli infections linked to romaine lettuce, following an alert issued on Tuesday by public health officials in the US and Canada warning people against eating the vegetable after 50 people fell ill. Thirteen of the victims were hospitalised. 

The alert covered all forms of romaine, including whole heads, hearts, bags, mixes and Caesar salad.

AVA said: "There is import of romaine lettuce from the US and AVA has reminded the industry to be vigilant."

The authority added that investigations on the actual source of the bacteria causing the outbreak are ongoing and no specific brand or farm has been identified.

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"As a precautionary measure, if consumers have bought romaine lettuce and are uncertain about the source, consumers should discard the lettuce," it said. 

The AVA also advised consumers to practise good food-handling habits. 

They should wash their hands, utensils and food preparation surfaces before and after handling raw food, and separate raw from cooked or ready-to-eat food. These measures help prevent cross-contamination.  CHANNEL NEWSASIA