Food Safety Alert: Bacillus Cereus Detected in Lemon Verbena
On November 19, 2025, a significant food safety incident was reported involving the detection of Bacillus cereus in lemon verbena sourced from Italy. This bio-contaminant poses a potential health risk, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems, as it can lead to foodborne illnesses.
Bacillus cereus is a type of bacteria commonly found in various environments, including soil and plants. It can produce toxins that may cause gastrointestinal disturbances when ingested through contaminated food products. Symptoms of infection can range from mild diarrhea to more severe gastrointestinal distress.
Consumers are advised to exercise caution when purchasing lemon verbena and to ensure that any products they buy are sourced from reputable suppliers who adhere to strict food safety standards. It is crucial to monitor updates from health authorities and food safety agencies regarding this incident.
Food safety is paramount, and incidents like this highlight the importance of rigorous testing and quality control measures in the food supply chain. Individuals should remain vigilant and report any adverse reactions to health professionals.
For further information, please refer to the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed portal (RASFF), which provides updates and alerts on food safety issues across Europe.