A Wayzata, Minnesota deli owner contacted the state health department after receiving reports that a catered meal arranged by the deli resulted in a significant amount of illness. Between 350 and 400 people ate at the catered event. Epidemiologists contacted event goers, and they discovered a total of 50 ill persons. Clostridium perfringens was suspected to be the causative agent. No specific food item was significantly associated with illness. An inspection of the deli noted the potential for cross-contamination, lack of a license to cater, and improper procedures and facilities used during the preparation of the meal. The restaurant owner had prepared portions of the turkey within the owner's private home. The facilities at the deli were too small for large scale cooking.