RECALL: Unpasteurized milk from Quebec farm

Cows on a farm. (cottonbro studio/pexels.com)

Quebec’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) is advising the public not to consume raw, unpasteurized milk sold by Ferme R. Mailloux et Fils Inc. in Saint-Paul-d’Abbotsford in the Montérégie region.

“This product has not been prepared in a manner that ensures its safety,” the ministry notes.

The recall specifies that Quebec regulations require that all dairy products intended for sale or distribution be manufactured at a dairy plant that is licensed by MAPAQ.

“It is therefore prohibited to sell, distribute or offer dairy products prepared at home or on the farm,” the ministry insists.

MAPAQ says it is issuing the warning as a precautionary measure.

The raw milk was sold only at Ferme R. Mailloux et Fils Inc. and was distributed in bulk before being transferred to containers provided by the seller or buyers.

“Anyone in possession of this product is advised not to consume it and to discard it,” MAPAQ insists. “Even if the product in question shows no signs of spoilage or suspicious odours, consuming it may pose a health risk.”

The ministry explains that consuming raw milk or unpasteurized dairy products can lead to food poisoning caused by microorganisms such as salmonella, E. coli, or listeria.

These bacteria can cause severe reactions, including fever, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney failure, miscarriage or death.

Anyone experiencing symptoms related to the consumption of the recalled product is advised to consult a health care professional.