The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has updated its national recall for various pistachio and pistachio-containing items linked to a nationwide salmonella outbreak. The total number of recalled items now sits at 277 as of Dec. 17, according to the CFIA. The latest recall additions continue as federal authorities investigate a persistent outbreak tied to salmonella infections – a foodborne bacterial illness – across multiple provinces. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has confirmed 155 laboratory-confirmed illnesses connected to the outbreak since March, with 24 hospitalizations reported but no deaths, according to a recent update. Of the 155 cases, the outbreak has affected residents from Ontario, Quebec, B.C., Alberta, Manitoba and New Brunswick. Health officials urge Canadians not to consume, use, sell, serve or distribute any recalled pistachios or products containing them, which range from raw kernels to snack mixes, pastries and baked goods. Retailers and consumers alike are advised to check product names, descriptions and lot codes listed on the CFIA’s recall notice page and immediately removed affected items from homes or shelves. How it started The recall originated with the CFIA’s initial July notices after salmonella was detected in samples of certain pistachio products, including imported nuts and Dubai-style chocolates. Authorities have linked the outbreak to a wide array of items sold in grocery stories, specialty markets and online with distribution across all 10 provinces. Products under recall have included raw and roasted pistachios, chocolate bars, pastries such as baklava and other treats made with pistachios. In addition to recalling products already on Canadian shelves, the CFIA has taken preventive measures to reduce the risk of contaminated goods entering the country. Since late September, the agency has temporarily banned imports of pistachios and pistachio-containing products from Iran, a response to evidence linking some contamination back to imported nuts. “The CFIA has now made it mandatory for all federally licenced importers and manufacturers that have Iranian pistachios that were imported prior to September 27, to hold and test them for Salmonella before they can be sold in Canada,” a news release said. The CFIA said there have been more than 160 recalls linked to pistachios that were imported from Iran. What consumers can do The CFIA and public health authorities say the investigation remains ongoing and the recall list continues to grow as new products are identified through inspections. Health warnings say that salmonella contamination may not change the look, smell or taste of pistachios or related foods, meaning consumers may not be able to spot unsafe products without checking the recall lists. A public health notice also said not to cook or bake with pistachios if it’s not clear where they came from, as heat may not kill salmonella. PHAC advises anyone who believes they have consumed contaminated pistachio products and is experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, nausea or abdominal cramps to contact a health-care provider. “People who are infected with salmonella bacteria can spread Salmonella to other people several days to several weeks after they have become infected, even if they don’t have symptoms,” the notice said. The agency also reminds Canadians that proper disposal – or returning items to retailers – helps reduce the risk of salmonella exposure as the outbreak investigation continues. With files from CTV News’ Aarjavee Raaj and The Canadian Press
