A food advisory has been issued across Canada for cantaloupe, watermelon, and honeydew melons as the melon season kicks off, urging Canadians to prioritize safe handling practices.
Health Canada is reminding the public that while melons don’t naturally harbor harmful bacteria, their rinds can become contaminated due to their growth close to the ground. This contamination can lead to serious health risks, including food poisoning.
The warning comes in the wake of a severe salmonella outbreak last year, linked to Malichita and Rudy brand cantaloupes. The outbreak, which began in December 2023, resulted in seven deaths across nine provinces, with 153 confirmed cases and more under investigation. The outbreak had widespread effects, with Quebec reporting 103 cases, Ontario 20, British Columbia 17, and other provinces reporting smaller numbers.
To prevent similar incidents, Health Canada advises consumers to follow strict food safety practices when handling melons:
- Choose firm melons: Select melons that are free of bruises or damage. Minor blemishes from ground contact are generally safe.
- Refrigerate pre-cut melons: Store pre-cut melons in the refrigerator and ensure your hands are washed with warm water and soap before and after handling.
- Clean whole melons: Scrub the rinds of whole melons under cool running water using a clean produce brush to prevent bacteria from transferring from the rind to the flesh.
- Proper storage: Whole melons can be refrigerated for up to 15 days, while cut melons should be used within four days. Any cut melons left at room temperature for more than two hours should be discarded.
Health Canada emphasizes that these precautions are crucial to ensuring the safe consumption of melons and avoiding potential health risks.