In Calabria, southern Italy, a 45-year-old woman tragically died on August 6 after eating a sandwich purchased from a food truck. The sandwich contained sausage and turnip greens and is suspected to have been contaminated with botulism. She is the second fatality linked to allegedly tainted sandwiches served from the same vendor
A Grim Pattern Emerges
The first known death was of Luigi Di Sarno, a 52-year-old man from Naples, who reportedly died after consuming a sausage and broccoli preserved in oil sandwich from the same food truck. Authorities quickly seized the truck, linking the contamination to its preserved vegetable offerings.
Dozens Affected—Some in Critical Condition
Following these fatalities, at least 17 other people were hospitalized exhibiting botulism symptoms. Two were 17-year-olds, and two others were women in their 40s. Approximately five individuals are in intensive care.
What is Botulism—and Why It’s So Dangerous?
Botulism stems from Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium capable of disrupting the nervous system. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and, in severe cases, death.
Investigations and Legal Fallout
Italy’s Paola Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into the food truck vendor and any potentially contaminated products. Officials noted that the vendor may have used a single kitchen tool for multiple ingredients, a possible contributor to cross-contamination. The vendor’s lawyer, Francesco Liserre, claimed the food was refrigerated and only opened upon use. He asserted that the contamination likely originated from the products themselves, not from negligence in preparation.
Multiple People Under Scrutiny
Authorities are investigating ten individuals, including the street food vendors, medical professionals who treated the victims before their deaths, and executives from companies responsible for manufacturing the suspected contaminated item.
Life-Saving Antitoxin and Emergency Response
Calabrian authorities activated emergency protocols, coordinating with the national Poison Control Centre in Pavia, which manages botulism treatment distribution. The antitoxin serum is stored centrally and dispensed through designated secure facilities. Initially, the first two vials arrived from the Military Pharmacy in Taranto. As more cases emerged, additional supplies were urgently flown from San Camillo Hospital in Rome to Calabria via a 118-designated aircraft.
Calls for Stronger Food Safety Regulations
Following the tragic incident, several consumer advocacy groups have renewed calls for stricter food safety monitoring and enforcement. They argue that cases like this highlight the need for more frequent inspections, particularly for ready-to-eat meals sold in cafes, restaurants, and grocery stores. Experts suggest that public awareness campaigns could also help prevent future tragedies by educating consumers on how to spot signs of spoiled food, as well as the importance of refrigeration and proper handling.
The victim’s family has expressed hope that sharing her story will prevent others from suffering a similar fate. They are now urging authorities to implement more robust food safety measures and hold negligent businesses accountable. While nothing can undo the loss, advocates believe that this case can serve as a catalyst for change, pushing both the food industry and regulatory bodies to prioritize public health above profit.Her death is a heartbreaking reminder of food safety’s importance.
