Nestle, the Swiss food giant, is facing legal charges in France over a 2022 E. coli outbreak linked to its Buitoni Fraich’Up pizzas. The contamination resulted in two children’s deaths and dozens of illnesses, prompting a criminal investigation into involuntary manslaughter, deceitful practices, and endangering others, according to an article by the Dow Jones.
French prosecutors have filed preliminary charges against Nestle France and its subsidiary, Societe des Produits Alimentaires de Caudry, which operated the plant where the contaminated pizzas were produced. These charges indicate an ongoing investigation, with no final judgment yet rendered.
E. coli is typically a harmless bacteria found in human and animal intestines. However, certain strains like STEC can produce toxins causing severe sickness. Symptoms include severe diarrhea (sometimes bloody), stomach cramps, vomiting, and fever.
To prevent infection, health officials recommend thorough hand washing with soap and warm water, using disinfectants on surfaces, and avoiding food preparation when unwell. Those experiencing symptoms should not return to work, school, or nursery until 48 hours after symptoms subside. Visiting hospitals or care homes is also discouraged during this time.
Nestle has stated its intention to assume full responsibility and hopes the “legal proceedings will help to clarify the circumstances of this dramatic event and bring some healing to the victims and their families.”
The company’s response to the outbreak included recalling the affected products and halting production at the Caudry facility in northern France in March 2022. Subsequently, Nestle divested the plant, citing brand backlash and market competition, finalizing its transfer to Italpizza earlier this year.
In 2023, Nestle reached a compensation agreement with 63 victims and their families. However, the legal proceedings indicate that the company’s responsibilities extend beyond financial compensation.
Despite no longer controlling the Caudry facility, Nestle now faces increased scrutiny from authorities over food safety practices and quality control in its former production lines.
As the legal proceedings progress, Nestle has pledged to cooperate with the investigation.
Commenting on this story, one national food safety attorney said, “The ongoing scrutiny of this case is an example of the long-term consequences of food safety failures, which extends beyond the initial incident to impact a company’s operations and reputation. It is therefore critical that food companies maintain rigid quality control measures throughout the entire production process. Lives and the future of the business could be at stake.”
