Seafood Supplier’s Popular Dish Linked to Illnesses in Jessup, MD

Hospital bed in ICU with monitoring equipment.

A serious food poisoning outbreak at NAFCO Wholesale Seafood in Jessup, Maryland, has left 46 people hospitalized after consuming a homemade pancit dish.

At a Glance

  • 46 hospitalized following food poisoning at NAFCO Wholesale Seafood in Maryland.
  • Homemade pancit dish linked to the outbreak, not company seafood products.
  • The Howard County Health Department is leading a thorough investigation.
  • Pancit dish was consumed during a social gathering by employees.

Outbreak Details

NAFCO Wholesale Seafood Distributors in Jessup, Maryland, witnessed a significant food poisoning incident, leading to 46 hospitalizations. Employees participating in a social event consumed a homemade pancit dish, which is suspected as the source of the outbreak. Symptoms surfaced within hours of consumption in the company’s parking lot. The incident did not involve NAFCO’s seafood products, known for rigorous health safety standards.

The affected individuals, after the onset of symptoms, were quickly evaluated and transported to Howard County General Hospital. The hospital activated a “mini disaster alert” to manage the influx. Fortunately, all patients were in non-critical condition. The situation underscores the importance of maintaining stringent food safety standards, especially when consuming items prepared off-premises.

Ongoing Investigation

The Howard County Health Department is conducting a thorough investigation into the outbreak. Investigators are collecting food samples and medical specimens from the affected individuals to pinpoint the contamination source. Dr. Clifford Mitchell emphasized the importance of obtaining samples to identify the responsible agents.

“If we can get samples of the food itself and test it in our laboratory, and then we will also look at specimens from individuals who have sought medical care to identify the causal agent or agents.” – Dr. Clifford Mitchell

NAFCO Wholesale Seafood, a major seafood distributor, does not sell directly to consumers, limiting potential external impact. Officials clarified that the outbreak stems from employee-brought food, further confirming the safety of their commercial seafood. In an abundance of caution, NAFCO will prohibit outside food on its premises moving forward.

Health and Safety Assurance

NAFCO’s reputation as a reliable seafood distributor remains intact, with ongoing adherence to high health safety standards. The company’s efforts to maintain such rigorous protocols are noteworthy. NAFCO’s parent company emphasizes the regular inspections conducted at their facilities by relevant health authorities.

“NAFCO operates under the highest health and safety standards in the industry. Our headquarters and facilities are regularly inspected and monitored by the relevant health authorities to ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations.” – NAFCO’s parent company Stanley Pearlman Enterprises

The Howard County Health Department’s investigation and swift hospital response showcase their dedication to resolving public health incidents effectively. As details of the potential contamination unfold, authorities stress the isolation of this incident, ensuring broader public food safety remains uncompromised.

Sources

1. Mass food poisoning incident under investigation; nearly 50 workers hospitalized

2. 46 hospitalized with food poisoning after employee pot-luck at Maryland seafood distributor

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