Thyme Out: Health Warning Issued Over Contaminated Packets

Imagine reaching for a sprig of fresh thyme from your kitchen cupboard, only to find it’s not the culinary boost you expected. This is the reality facing many local households after the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate issued a warning over contaminated thyme packets.

What’s in Your Packet?

The warning, released earlier this week, advised consumers to check their packets of fresh thyme. Tests revealed the presence of cyclospora, a parasite that can cause cyclosporiasis, a intestinal illness. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue. Yikes!

Supermarkets across Malta and Gozo have been affected. So far, packets from local suppliers like Valyou and Fresh & More have been recalled. If you’ve bought thyme recently, double-check your packets. Better safe than sorry!

How Did This Happen?

The source of the contamination is still under investigation. However, cyclospora is typically associated with imported fresh produce. With Malta’s love for fresh herbs, it’s not uncommon to find thyme imported from other Mediterranean countries. The parasite can be spread through contaminated soil or water.

Dr. Charmaine Gauci, Superintendent of Public Health, urged consumers to follow basic food safety guidelines. “Wash your hands before and after handling food. Clean surfaces and utensils after preparing raw food. And cook food thoroughly,” she advised.

What Now?

If you’ve consumed contaminated thyme and are experiencing symptoms, seek medical attention. Your doctor can order a stool test to confirm cyclosporiasis. In the meantime, stick to dried thyme or grow your own herbs at home. The Health Directorate has set up a hotline for queries: 2122 5669.

This isn’t the first time Malta has faced a food scare. In 2018, a batch of locally produced honey was recalled due to high levels of lead. But with increased awareness and vigilance, we can keep our kitchen cupboards safe.

So, next time you reach for that thyme, give it a second thought. A little caution can go a long way in keeping our bellies happy and healthy.