Think Tank Finds 'Silver Separators' Have Almost Doubled Since 1990

Campylobacter, a bug that can cause stomach upsets, vomiting and diarrhoea, is found in up to 59% of the fresh chicken products sold in the UK, according to the preliminary results of a Food Standards Agency (FSA) survey.

The Guardian reports that supermarkets are continuing to sell chicken products to consumers even though they have tested positive for high levels of the bacteria.

Public Health England officials have accused the poultry industry of avoiding taking action to keep the price of meat low, and is calling for more robust legislation to tackle the problem.

Dr Frieda Jorgensen of Public Health England said bad flock-thinning practices within the industry are enabling the spread of campylobacter. She recommended freezing chickens that are found to be carriers, which can reduce contamination levels by up to 90 per cent.

"The quickest way to tackle campylobacter is for the food industry to take voluntary action," the Guardian reports an FSA spokesman as saying.

"We are looking to retailers and their suppliers to introduce a range of actions now to help reduce the risks to the public from campylobacter, which is currently the biggest cause of food poisoning in the UK."

Expert Opinion

This research reflects trends which have now been seen for a number of years, with it reflecting how attitudes and lifestyles have changed significantly in the past 20 or 30 years. <br/> <br/>"In our work, we see numerous cases when couples in this age group simply drift apart, particularly when children have grown up and left home for university or to pursue other opportunities. This kind of ‘empty nest syndrome’ means the dynamic between couples changes, with new issues arising which may have been ignored in the past when looking after children. With life expectancy increasing, together with the more active lifestyle nowadays of many people in and near retirement, many may simply be unwilling to spend another 20 or 30 years living with someone for whom they no longer feel strongly. <br/> <br/>"This is a hugely important issue to consider and it is vital that those considering such a step speak to experts to gain a proper understanding of their position. The division of their pension – which may be a key asset – is a very important and frequently complicated consideration. Ultimately, advice is also important to ensure that any separation can be resolved as amicably and quickly as possible." Amandeep Dhillon - Partner