Measures taken in response to the food warning issued following the listeria outbreak in Andalusia

9.9.2019

Question for written answer E-002683-19
to the Commission
Rule 138
Clara Aguilera (S&D) , Cristina Maestre Martín De Almagro (S&D)

On 16 August, a major food and health crisis broke out in Andalusia (Spain). The Regional Government of Andalusia issued a warning for listeriosis, which had caused the death of three people, resulted in seven abortions and affected more than 200 people, mainly in Andalusia.

It appears that the Andalusian Government had become aware of the problem on 9 August, when it learned that sample 700439/19, which it had sent for analysis, contained high traces of listeria, but did not order Magrudis (the company that manufactured the contaminated meat) to withdraw the product until 14 August, and on 15 August the health warning was issued.

On 5 September, the Andalusian Government issued another food warning, this time for products under the ‘Sabores de Paterna’ label.

Five days passed between the Andalusian Government becoming aware of the results of the analysis until the warning being issued. This, together with a lack of transparency as regards the information that has been provided by the regional administration, is generating huge mistrust among the general public.

1. In the Commission’s view, has the Spanish food and health crisis been properly managed by the Andalusian Government?

2. Has the correct protocol been followed to cope with a crisis of this scale?

3. Was European legislation for taking action and issuing food warnings complied with?