The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall by Wagener’s Meat, based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada of its ham in jelly (jelly pork) product due to potential Listeria monocytogenes (“Listeria”) contamination. Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
The recall was initiated after an investigation into a foodborne illness outbreak by the CFIA uncovered the potential for Listeria contamination.
A food safety investigation is ongoing and other products may be recalled.
The CFIA will verify that the recalled products will be removed from store shelves.
Distribution
The affected products were only sold in the Canadian province of Ontario through multiple retailers.
Product Details
- Brand – Wagener’s
- Product – Ham in Jelly (Jelly Pork)
- Size – Variable
- Best by Date – December 28, 2024
- Code(s) – 241
According to the recall notice, the recalled product may have been “either clerk-served, sliced, chunked or in smaller packages, with or without a label that may not bear the same brand, product name or best before date.”
Consumer’s should contact their local retailer if they are unsure if they have purchased any of the recalled products.
Consumer Action
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected products even if they look or smell safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled products are requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
The recall notice did not state whether or not the products could be returned to the place of purchase so they should be thrown away immediately.
Any surfaces that have come into contact with the recalled products should be thoroughly sanitized to avoid cross-contamination.
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
No illnesses in connection with consumption of the recalled products have been reported.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, is particularly dangerous for certain vulnerable populations. Pregnant individuals, people aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems are at highest risk. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, sometimes preceded by gastrointestinal symptoms. In pregnant individuals, listeriosis can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of Listeriosis should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Commenting on this story, one national Listeria lawyer said, “A Listeria outbreak of Listeria in the US linked to deli meat has resulted in ten deaths and scores of hospitalizations. Any consumer in possession of the recalled ham in jelly should throw it out as soon as possible to limit the risk of Listeria infection.”
