E.coli outbreak traced to contaminated minced meat at Mánagarður preschool in Reykjavík

An E.coli outbreak affecting children at the Mánagarður preschool in Reykjavík has been traced back to contaminated mixed beef and sheep minced meat from Kjarnafæði. The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority confirmed that the meat was not sold on the open market but was distributed exclusively to large kitchens, including restaurants, canteens, and preschools.

As of yesterday, eleven children were hospitalized at the Hringsins children’s hospital due to the E.coli infection, with four in critical condition in the intensive care unit. The first child was discharged two days ago.

In light of this incident, there are ongoing discussions about food safety protocols and the distribution of minced meat products. The authorities are investigating further to ascertain how the contamination occurred and to prevent future outbreaks.