The fact that tainted salami products linked to a recent salmonella outbreak have now gone to British Columbia and Saskatchewan is further proof of an already serious food safety problem, health officials say.
The Public Health Agency of Canada says 87 people have become sick after eating the contaminated lunch meats, and nine ended up in hospital. Earlier reports linked the outbreak to products sold in provinces such as Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has warned that more than 65 varieties of meat may be affected, including salamis produced by Rea, Bona, Cosmo’s Smoked Meats, Imperial Meats and other makers. These products have been discovered in stores variously including large groceries and butchers to delis and cafés.
Rea Soppressata Salami Sweet, Genoa Salami Sweet, Genoa Salami Hot, and Bona Mild Genova Salami are the products that were impacted. Customers have been advised to look in their fridges and throw out these products.
For children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with immune deficiencies, Salmonella infection can be particularly harmful. Symptoms may range from fever and stomach cramps to vomiting and, in some cases, bloody diarrhea.
Food safety has become a bigger focus for experts, especially after the pandemic caused major disruptions to routine inspections. While the number of recalls has not risen, there is growing attention to foodborne illnesses.
Customers are advised to visit the CFIA website to stay informed about the most recent recalls. You can also sign up for real-time alerts on recalled food products.
