Two brands of packaged Neapolitan-style greens are subject to an urgent recall due to suspected botulinum toxin contamination, with consumers warned to return any purchased products. The Italian Ministry of Health issued the recall notice via its dedicated operators’ website. Affected products include two lots under the Bel Sapore label and two lots under the Vittoria brand. All are 1kg packages originating from a production facility in Scafati, Salerno province.
The Bel Sapore recall covers lot numbers 060325 (expiry March 6, 2028) and 280325 (expiry March 28, 2028). The Vittoria recall involves lot numbers 280325 (expiry March 28, 2028) and 290425 (expiry April 28, 2028). The products, distributed by Ciro Velleca and produced by Stefano Amura at the Scafati plant, were listed in the ministry’s technical recall sheet dated August 9th.
This recall coincides with ongoing investigations in Calabria following a fatal food poisoning incident. Two people died and fourteen others were hospitalized after consuming sandwiches from a food truck in Diamante, Cosenza. Analyses by Italy’s National Health Institute (ISS) confirmed botulinum toxin in multiple foods from the truck. Results were forwarded to the Paola Prosecutor’s Office, leading the probe. Prosecutor Domenico Fiordalisi suggested cross-contamination via a single kitchen tool used by the vendor. Hospitalized patients in Cosenza remain stable: five in intensive care, three in pediatrics, and six in medical wards.
Diamante’s Mayor, Achille Ordine, sought to reassure residents and tourists on Monday, stating: “The incident is isolated. Reasonably, there is no current danger. I encourage everyone to visit Diamante safely.” Health experts, including the Italian Society of Hygiene, strongly advise against tasting any food with suspected botulism, noting gas production or lid bulging are key indicators of contamination, as the taste remains unchanged.