E.coli Warning in Batches Unpasteurised Canadian Cheese
CANADA - The Public Health Agency of Canada, along with its health and food safety partners, is investigating 25 cases of E.coli O157:H7 illness; 12 in British Columbia, 10 in Alberta and one each in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec.
9 October 2013
1 minute read
These individuals became ill between mid-July and mid-September. Most people who become ill from E. coli bacteria will recover within five to 10 days.
Certain contaminated cheese products manufactured by Gort’s Gouda Cheese Farm in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, have been identified as the source of the illnesses.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a Health Hazard Alert warning the public not to consume the affected product. Should additional products be recalled as part of the ongoing food safety investigation, the CFIA will immediately inform the public.
There is currently no indication of widespread risk to Canadians. However, E. coli O157:H7 can pose a serious public health risk. Additional cases of illness may be identified and linked to this outbreak in the future.
The Agency is advising the public not to eat any of the recalled product, adding people should check their refrigerator and if you have any of the recalled product in your home, return it to the point of purchase or throw it out.
For more information on the safe consumption of unpasteurised cheese products, please visit the Healthy Canadians web site.
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