Massive Recall of Deli Meat Products Across Canada
Health Canada has issued a significant recall of over 65 salami and cacciatore products due to potential contamination with Salmonella. The recall, announced on July 18, affects products distributed across six provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan. This action follows an outbreak that has sickened 87 individuals, with nine requiring hospitalization, as reported by the Public Health Agency of Canada.
The recalled items include products from various brands such as Bona, Cosmo's Smoked Meats, Imperial Meats, Longos, Luc's European Meats Cheese & Eats, Marini Salumi, Naturissimo, P & E Foods, Rea, Speziale Fine Foods, Superior Meats, T.J. Meats, and Vince's Cured Meats Corp. Health Canada warns that food contaminated with Salmonella may not appear or smell spoiled but can still cause illness. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and discard any affected products immediately.
Impact of the Salmonella Outbreak
The Salmonella outbreak linked to these deli meats began in mid-April, with cases peaking in early May. According to health officials, no deaths have been reported as of July 19. However, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the Public Health Agency of Canada are continuing their investigation to ensure all contaminated products are identified and removed from the market.
These recalled products were sold in various settings, including grocery stores like Metro and Food Basics, specialty markets, and restaurants. Health Canada advises the public, as well as hotels, restaurants, and institutions, not to consume, serve, or distribute the affected items. Additional recall warnings have been issued for prepared foods like sandwiches that may contain these contaminated meats.
Public Health Warnings and Next Steps
Health Canada emphasizes the importance of vigilance during this outbreak. 'Food contaminated with Salmonella may not look or smell spoiled but can still make you sick,' the agency stated in its alert. Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, and can be particularly severe for young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
The CFIA is working to update the list of recalled products as the investigation progresses. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed by checking the agency's website for the latest information on affected items. Meanwhile, public health officials are reminding everyone to practice safe food handling to prevent further spread of the bacteria, including washing hands and surfaces after handling raw or potentially contaminated foods.