Chicken Recall: Salmonella Risk in Tosano Supermarkets – Check Lot Numbers

Consumers in Italy have been alerted to an urgent recall of various chicken products due to suspected Salmonella contamination. The recall, initiated by Romanian producer Avicarvil Food&Distribution Srl, affects multiple lots of pre-portioned chicken sold at Tosano supermarkets. While the potential health risk is concerning, authorities emphasize the recall is precautionary, and consumers who have purchased the affected products are urged to return them for a full refund or replacement. This incident underscores the importance of robust food safety protocols and swift action to protect public health, particularly as the expiration dates of the recalled products are rapidly approaching.

The issue centers around potential Salmonella contamination detected in several chicken products manufactured by Avicarvil. Salmonella is a bacterial infection that can cause gastrointestinal illness, with symptoms including fever, nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. While most individuals recover without treatment, Salmonella infections can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, such as young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) reports that Salmonella is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness in the European Union, with poultry being a significant source of contamination. EFSA provides detailed information on Salmonella risks and prevention measures.

Affected Products and Lot Numbers

The recall encompasses a range of chicken products, all with a stated expiration date of March 1, 2026. Consumers should carefully check their refrigerators and freezers for the following items:

• Chicken Breast, 2.5 kg packages, lot number 0030481044
• Chicken Fillets, 2.5 kg packages, lot number 0050481043
• Chicken Thighs, 600g packages, lot number 0080481045
• Chicken Wings, 700g packages, lot number 0020481046
• Boneless Chicken Thighs, 2.5 kg packages, lot number 0090481042 and 650g packages, lot number 0090481048
• Chicken Thighs, 2.5 kg packages, lot number 0090481039 and 700g packages, lot number 0080481047

All affected products originate from the Avicarvil production facility located at str. Principala 54, in Frâncești, Vâlcea County, Romania, identified by the health marking RO 100 EC. The Romanian Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is responsible for overseeing food safety standards within the country, including the inspection of facilities like Avicarvil. More information about Romanian food safety regulations can be found on the ministry’s website.

Delayed Notification and Information Gaps

A significant concern surrounding this recall is the delay in notification to consumers. While Avicarvil issued the recall notice on February 23, 2026, Tosano supermarkets only began posting notices on February 26th and 27th, leaving a limited window before the products’ expiration date. This delay raises questions about the efficiency of the communication chain and the potential for consumers to unknowingly consume contaminated products. Reports indicate that the initial notices lacked images of the affected packaging, making identification more difficult for shoppers. As of February 27, 2026, the Italian Ministry of Health had not yet published the recall on its official portal, further compounding the issue.

The delay in publicizing the recall is particularly troubling given the potential severity of Salmonella infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1.35 million Salmonella infections occur in the United States each year, leading to approximately 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths. The CDC provides comprehensive information on Salmonella, including symptoms, prevention, and treatment. While these figures are specific to the US, they highlight the significant public health impact of Salmonella contamination globally.

What Consumers Should Do

The primary recommendation for consumers is to refrain from consuming any of the chicken products listed above. Individuals who have purchased these items are advised to return them to their local Tosano supermarket for a full refund or exchange, even without a receipt. Proper food handling practices are crucial in preventing the spread of Salmonella. This includes thoroughly cooking poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), washing hands and surfaces after handling raw chicken, and preventing cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.

The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of a “farm-to-table” approach to food safety, encompassing all stages of the food production and distribution chain. The WHO provides guidelines and resources for ensuring food safety at every level. This includes implementing robust hygiene practices, conducting regular testing for pathogens, and establishing effective traceability systems to quickly identify and address contamination events.

Avicarvil and Tosano: Company Responses

Avicarvil Food&Distribution Srl initiated the recall following internal testing that revealed the potential Salmonella contamination. The company has not yet released a detailed statement regarding the source of the contamination or the measures being taken to prevent future occurrences. Tosano supermarkets have confirmed their cooperation with the recall and are working to remove the affected products from their shelves. Consumers can contact Tosano’s customer service department for further information and assistance.

The incident raises broader questions about the oversight of food production facilities and the effectiveness of food safety regulations within the European Union. The European Commission is responsible for setting food safety standards across member states and ensuring their enforcement. The European Commission’s website provides information on food safety policies and regulations within the EU.

This chicken recall serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vigilance when it comes to food safety. Consumers should always check product labels for recall notices and follow recommended food handling practices to minimize the risk of foodborne illness. The delayed notification in this case highlights the require for improved communication protocols and greater transparency throughout the food supply chain.

Authorities are expected to provide further updates on the investigation and the extent of the contamination in the coming days. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels, such as the Italian Ministry of Health and the European Food Safety Authority. Continued monitoring and proactive measures are essential to protect public health and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Key Takeaways:

• Multiple lots of chicken products sold at Tosano supermarkets have been recalled due to suspected Salmonella contamination.
• The recall affects products with an expiration date of March 1, 2026, and includes chicken breasts, fillets, thighs, and wings.
• A delay in notifying consumers about the recall has raised concerns about the efficiency of the communication process.
• Consumers are advised to return affected products to Tosano for a full refund or exchange.

Please share this information with friends and family to ensure everyone is aware of the recall. Your comments and questions are welcome below.