A batch of dodgy profiteroles are being blamed on a listeria outbreak that could have spread across 13 public hospitals in Sydney.

Who writes like that? Apparently Australians. Dodgy means suspect, a profiterole is some sort of pastry (right).

The NSW Department of Health says that so far three patients, including a terminally ill man at Campbelltown Hospital who has since died, have tested positive for listeriosis.

The two other patients, one from Concord hospital and another from the Royal Prince Alfred are responding well to treatment.

The profiteroles which were made by Rich Products Australia have since been withdrawn from all patient meals.

An investigation into the outbreak which is believed to have occurred between mid-March and April 16 is ongoing.