[ad_1]
A MEAL service on wheels has been closed as investigations are being conducted into the death of a woman suffering from listeria poisoning.
An 80-year-old woman from Dandenong South died after ingesting food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, according to the Victoria Department of Health.
I Cook Foods, which provided meals to a number of seniors 'and hospitals' care facilities in Victoria, was closed until further notice.
The director of the company, Ian Cook, and his family would be "devastated" and hope to solve this "terrible tragedy".
Traiteur involved in the fatal death of listeria "devastated" by tragedy. Image: Google Maps
"We are horrified by what has happened and we are doing everything possible to help the health authorities," Cook said on behalf of the company.
"We wish to express our sympathy to the family of the deceased woman and will continue to cooperate with the competent authorities and badist them in any way possible.
"It has devastated my family and we want, like everyone else, to get to the bottom of things.
"It's a terrible tragedy and our heart goes to the family of the woman who died."
Dr. Brett Sutton, Acting Chief Health Officer for Victoria, told reporters that thousands of people may be at risk.
"More than a third of infected people may die," said Dr. Sutton.
The Victoria-based caterer, I Cook Foods, has been closed pending an investigation into the death of a woman in her 80s.
The sun herald reports that the caterer was shut down overnight by the Department of Health and Social Services and the Greater Dandenong Council.
"A thorough cleaning was done and the facilities will not reopen until further tests and improvements are done," the department said in a statement.
"The facilities provided by the company, including private hospitals, senior care centers and Meals on Wheels services were contacted to make other arrangements."
The state government warns foods at risk of listeria contamination include smoked fish or raw seafood, pre-packaged fruit and vegetable salads, uncooked meats and cheeses soft dough such as Brie, Camembert and Feta cheese.
I Cook Foods is a family owned Australian company operating in the Lilydale area since 1985.
They are the largest private provider of meals delivered to Victoria, serving senior care facilities, hospitals and cafes.
[ad_2]
Source link
