The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall by Lowlaws supermarket chain of PC Blue Menu brand original margarine and margarine with olive oil due to potential mold contamination. Mold can cause a number of side effects including respiratory illness, allergic reactions, and mycotoxin poisoning.
Background
The recall notice did not specify how the potential presence of mold in the affected products was discovered.
Distribution
The recalled margarines were distributed to retail channels across Canada.
Product Details
| Brand | Product | Size | Codes | UPC Code |
| PC Blue Menu | Original Margarine | 907 g | BB/MA 2024 NO 17 HH:MM 582550 BB/MA 2024 NO 18 HH:MM 582561 | 0 60383 77867 5 |
| 1.81 kg | BB/MA 2024 NO 18 HH:MM 582562 | 0 60383 77868 2 | ||
| Margarine with Olive Oil | 907 kg | BB/MA 2024 NO 17 HH:MM 582548 | 0 60383 77938 2 |
Consumer Action
Consumers should search their homes for the recalled products.
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected margarines, even if they look or smell safe to eat.
Consumers should not sell, serve, or distribute the recalled products.
The recall notice did not state whether or not the products could be returned to the place of purchase and so, at a minimum, should be disposed of properly.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact the CFIA by phone at 800-442-2342 toll free in either Canada or the United States or by email at [email protected].
Health Risks
The recall notice did not state whether or not there have been any illnesses or injuries in connection with the recalled products. Consumers who have been exposed to the recalled margarines, and are experiencing sickness of any kind, should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Molds are microscopic fungi that produce spores and thrive on organic materials, such as plants and animals. The spores can be carried to other organisms by air, water, or insects. Mold can cause a number of side effects including respiratory illness, allergic reactions, and mycotoxin poisoning. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA), “mycotoxins are poisonous substances produced by certain molds found primarily in grain and nut crops, but are also known to be on celery, grape juice, apples, and other produce.”
Commenting on this story, one national food poisoning lawyer said, “Even though the recalled products may look safe to eat, I recommend that consumers dispose of them immediately as potential toxins in the mold can cause severe health issues.”
