A nationwide salmonella outbreak has triggered widespread concern across Canada, as health officials confirm dozens of illnesses tied to a range of recalled pistachio products — some of which were sold at major retailers and online platforms.
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62 Confirmed Cases and 10 Hospitalizations
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has linked 62 cases of salmonella infection to the contaminated pistachio-based products. Ten of those individuals required hospitalization, with many more likely affected but unreported due to mild symptoms.
Where and How Contaminated Products Were Sold
The affected items — including chocolate bars, pastries, and raw pistachios — were distributed across Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and New Brunswick, appearing in well-known stores such as Costco, and also being sold online. The widespread distribution means that consumers in other provinces may also be at risk, even if their province has not yet reported confirmed cases.
What Products Have Been Recalled So Far?
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued several recalls, covering both retail and food service products. Some of the contaminated goods may have been sold without labels, used in bakery items, or distributed under various brand names.
List of Recalled Products
Raw Pistachios and Nut Kernels
- Habibi Pistachio Kernel (10 kg) – sold to hotels, restaurants, and institutions
- Al Mokhtar Food Centre Pistachio (450 g)
Dubai-Style Chocolate & Nut Products
- Chocofolie Chocolat Dubaï – Milk Chocolate Kunafa & Pistachio (145 g)
- Chocolato Chocolat Dubaï – Milk Chocolate Kunafa & Pistachio (145 g)
- Chocolats Favoris Dubai Chocolate – Pistachio & Knafeh Milk Chocolate (145 g)
- Dubai-brand Pistachio & Knafeh Milk Chocolate (145 g)
- Vincent Sélection Dubai Chocolate – Milk Chocolate, Knafeh & Pistachio (145 g)
Pastry Items
- Various Andalos Pastry Products
These items were primarily sold in Quebec, B.C., Ontario, and New Brunswick but could have reached homes across the country due to online sales.
Hidden Dangers and Underreported Cases
PHAC warns that the actual number of infections could be significantly higher. Many people with salmonella experience only mild symptoms and may not seek medical care, leading to underreporting.
“For every confirmed case, researchers estimate there are up to 26 more cases that go unreported,” PHAC notes.
The first known illness occurred in March, but new infections have continued to surface into August, making this a prolonged and ongoing health concern.
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Symptoms of Salmonella Infection
What to Watch For:
Symptoms can begin 6 to 72 hours after exposure and typically include:
- Diarrhea
- Fever and chills
- Vomiting and nausea
- Abdominal cramps
- Headaches
While most people recover without treatment, children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems may be at risk of serious illness or complications.
PHAC also warns that individuals may still carry and spread the bacteria even after symptoms have subsided.
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What You Should Do If You Have Recalled Products
Check and Act Immediately:
- Review CFIA recall notices for product names, UPC codes, and lot numbers
- Do not consume or serve any recalled products
- Return the items to the place of purchase or dispose of them safely
- Thoroughly wash any surfaces or containers the products may have touched
Due to the long incubation period of salmonella, new cases may still emerge for up to 55 days after exposure — making continued vigilance critical.
This Is the Second Major Salmonella Outbreak This Summer
This outbreak is unfolding alongside another active salmonella investigation involving contaminated deli meats, which has caused 88 illnesses across Alberta, Ontario, B.C., and Manitoba.
Canadians are urged to stay informed through the CFIA and PHAC websites, as new products may be added to the recall list and additional health guidance may be issued.