Canadian health officials are warning consumers to check their cupboards after a salmonella outbreak linked to pistachios and pistachio-containing products has sickened nearly 80 people and sent 11 to hospital.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) confirmed that the outbreak continues to grow, with 27 additional illnesses and two more hospitalizations reported since early August. Most people became sick between early March and mid-August.
The majority of cases — 55 — have been reported in Quebec, followed by 15 in Ontario, five in British Columbia, one in New Brunswick, and one in Manitoba. Nearly 80 per cent of those affected are women.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued dozens of recall warnings in recent weeks for a range of products, including bulk pistachios and popular desserts such as baklava and Dubai chocolate. Brands affected include Habibi, Al Mokhtar Food Centre, Dubai, Andalos, Délifruits, Chocofolie, and Nutrifresh. The recalled products were sold in Ontario, Quebec, and online.
Salmonella infection can be dangerous — even deadly — for children, seniors, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, cramps, and diarrhea, but some people may carry the bacteria without symptoms, potentially spreading it for days or weeks.
Health authorities say they expect more cases to be reported due to the lag between illness onset and public health confirmation.
Consumers are urged to:
- Check recall lists on the CFIA website and discard affected products.
- Sanitize containers or surfaces that may have been in contact with recalled products.
- Seek medical care if experiencing severe or persistent symptoms such as high fever, bloody diarrhea, or dehydration.
PHAC continues to work with provincial health units and the CFIA to trace the source and prevent further spread.