Nine confirmed cases of listeriosis have been reported in Ontario as part of an ongoing investigation linked to recalled plant-based refrigerated beverages, provincial health officials say. On Monday, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced a recall affecting certain Silk and Great Value brands of oat and almond refrigerated beverages that may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Dr.
Kieran Moore, Ontario's chief medical officer of health, said that as of Monday, there have been five hospitalizations associated with this outbreak investigation. Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that can cause listeriosis, a serious but rare illness with symptoms that may start suddenly and include vomiting, nausea, cramps, severe headache, constipation or fever. More severe illness may result in the brain infection meningitis and blood infection in newborns and older adults.
In recent years, about 134 cases of invasive listeriosis have been reported annually in the country, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). Of these, Public Health Ontario reported 75 cases in 2023, including 14 deaths. The recalled products were manufactured by Danone Canada and distributed nationally, the CFIA said.
WATCH | Preventing food poisoning: Food Poisoning Risk Factors and Treatment 1 year ago Duration 5:31 Calgary physician Dr. Raj Bhardwaj on how to make sure food poisoning doesn't ruin your next picnic or potluck. Stores across Canada are being told not to sel.
