The Public Health Agency of Canada reports that a third person has sadly died in a listeria epidemic linked to Great Value and Silk plant-based milks. This results in 20 confirmed listeriosis cases overall for Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Alberta. The Ontario Ministry of Health already announced the first two deaths. It is still unknown where the third fatality occurred.
Along with Great Value brand almond milk with best before dates up to and including October 4, the impacted goods are Silk brand almond milk, coconut milk, almond-coconut milk, and oat milk. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has confirmed that a certain Joriki manufacturing line, a third-party beverage packaging company located in Pickering, Ontario, was the source of Listeria contamination. This facility is used by Danone Canada, a manufacturer.
One kind of bacterium that can lead to listeriosis—a dangerous infection—is listeria. Among the symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, fever, and muscular pains. Severe instances can cause the infection to enter the bloodstream and other areas of the body, therefore causing more major problems like meningitis. Particularly vulnerable to listeriosis are those with compromised immune systems, elderly persons, and expectant mothers.
Investigating the epidemic and striving to stop any more illnesses, the Public Health Agency of Canada is collaborating with provincial and federal partners. Customers should toss any of the impacted items or bring them back to the place of purchase, according to the government. To further remove any possible contamination, they recommend completely cleaning any surfaces or containers that could have come into contact with these goods.
Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Howard Njoo stresses the need for correct food handling and storage to lower listeriosis risk. He advises, “Even if the milk product seems and smells fine, it should be thrown out or returned to the store where it was bought. Don’t gamble with meals that can lead to listeriosis.”
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is working together with Danone Canada, the manufacturer, to address the problem and ensure product safety. Danone Canada has graciously removed the affected items from the shelves. All possibly contaminated goods will be looked at and eliminated throughout the recall process to stop Listeria from spreading any more.
Customers should remain aware and take the required care even if the research is still in progress. Following health authorities’ recommendations and being careful with food handling and consumption would allow people to preserve their safety and reduce the listeriosis risk.
