Supplement linked to Salmonella outbreak

A type of supplement has been linked to a Salmonella outbreak in the United Kingdom.

Orgenism is recalling Eggshell Membrane Capsules sold on Amazon because of Salmonella contamination.

The Salmonella found has been linked to a handful of illnesses after consumption of the product. 

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) said the detected type of Salmonella is resistant to several antibiotics. It produces extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), and is resistant to fluoroquinolones, tetracycline, and Fosfomycin, making infections more difficult to treat.

Consumers were told not to dispose of the product in household waste or flush capsules down toilets. People should contact their local health protection team for advice on how to dispose of it.

All batch codes of Orgenism Eggshell Membrane Capsules in a pack size of 60 capsules, 500-mg per serving are affected. 

Small outbreak
Hannah Charles, lead epidemiologist for gastrointestinal infections at UKHSA, said: “We are working with Public Health Scotland, the FSA and Food Standards Scotland to investigate a small Salmonella outbreak of fewer than five cases linked to eggshell membrane capsules, which are used as food supplements.

“These supplements are typically taken by people following fitness regimes and by older adults, as they claim to have benefits for joint health and longevity. However, elderly adults and those with existing health conditions face a higher risk of developing severe illness from Salmonella infection.

 “Salmonella can spread from person to person, as well as from food. Anyone experiencing diarrhea or vomiting should wash their hands thoroughly after using the toilet and avoid handling or preparing food for others. Please stay home from work or keep unwell children away from school or nursery until at least 48 hours after symptoms have cleared.”

In Ireland, the HSE-HPSC said it is aware of the product recall posted by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) and the reasons for it being put in place. There are no illnesses linked to the recall. There have been three other Salmonella outbreaks notified to HSE-HPSC in 2025.

Following the FSAI food alert in late June, Amazon later confirmed there was no direct distribution of the affected product to Ireland.

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