Listeria outbreak linked to luxury restaurant in Stockholm
A rare listeria outbreak has been linked to the upscale Coco Carmen restaurant in Stockholm, where up to 400 guests may have been exposed to the bacteria through a dessert. A couple in Falun has been confirmed ill, and experts express surprise over the incident. Authorities are now investigating the source of the contamination.
The upscale Coco Carmen restaurant, known for its fine dining in Stockholm, is at the center of a listeria outbreak reported in recent days. According to the Public Health Agency of Sweden, the bacteria may have spread through a semifreddo dessert, an Italian frozen treat served to many guests. State epidemiologist Anders Wallensten describes the outbreak as "very unusual," as listeria typically spreads via unpasteurized dairy or contaminated food, but rarely in high-end restaurant settings.
A couple in Falun, who dined at the restaurant earlier in the week, has been confirmed infected and is showing symptoms like fever and stomach issues. They are now under treatment, and no severe illnesses have been reported so far. An estimated 400 restaurant guests may have consumed the suspected dish during the relevant period, based on bookings and menus.
Experts are surprised by the scale. A food safety expert is quoted saying: "I am absolutely surprised," pointing out that such outbreaks are rare in Sweden due to strict hygiene standards. The semifreddo is suspected behind the contamination at Coco Carmen, but the exact source remains unconfirmed. Authorities have temporarily closed the restaurant for inspection and are tracing ingredients from suppliers.
The context of listeria includes its particular danger to pregnant women, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, though most cases are mild. This is one of the largest restaurant-related outbreaks in recent times in Sweden, raising questions about food safety in the luxury sector. No deaths have been reported, but monitoring continues.