E.coli scare in UK now affects nine people

The E.coli outbreak in Paisley, Scotland has now affected nine people; one woman has died and three more remain in a serious condition while the other five are said to be recovering.

The sliced cold meat thought to be the source of the infection has been taken off the shelves at the two supermarket stores linked to the fatal E.coli o157 outbreak but according to reports the stores had previously been warned for contravening food hygiene procedures.

The local council has confirmed that environmental health issues were raised about the Falside Road and Lonend branches of Morrisons involving meat pies on display for 12 hours at room temperature and raw eggs being stored on warm surfaces.

Morrisons insist inspection reports are always professionally acted upon but it appears that more than 20 issues surrounding standards at the two branches have occurred over the past three years.

In October 2005 seven contraventions of food safety regulations were noted and a further 10 points were raised by inspectors in May this year.

The latest report states that some "poor food-handling procedures" needed to be addressed".

Morrisons maintains they rank highly within the food industry and have a good reputation for high standards, quality staff training and rigorous processes.

Customers are advised not to eat any meats that were purchased at the two stores' deli counters.