French authorities reported eight cases of botulism in adults in France. Five of these cases were confirmed in the Vaucluse region of southern France while three further cases were identified in the Somme Department, in northern France. All cases required hospitalisation.

 Following investigation, all of the cases had reported consumption of either a green olive and almond tapenade (a Provencal dish of pureed olives) or a tomato paste, which were sold under three different trade names. Each of the three brands were found to have been contaminated with botulinum toxin. They were immediately withdrawn from the market.  The Food Safety Authority of Ireland issued an alert regarding this incident. Click here. No cases associated with this incident were identified in Ireland. 

 Botulism is a rare, but very serious, intoxication leading to a neurological condition affecting the nerves of the body caused by botulinum toxin, a toxin produced by various strains of Clostridia.  Botulism in adults is most commonly foodborne; it can also be transmitted by contaminated needles used by intravenous drug users. Botulism can also affect infants. Full information on botulism is available on the HPSC website. Click here.