The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Aux Terroirs, based in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, have issued a voluntary recall for Fromagerie des Grondines brand Festin Soft Cheese due to contamination with generic E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, both pathogens that can cause serious, and sometimes severe, foodborne illness in certain populations.
Background
The recall notice did not specify how the presence of E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus were discovered in the impacted product.
This is classified as a Class II recall, which means the affected products may pose a moderate health risk, but the probability of serious health consequences is low.
Distribution
The recalled product was only distributed in the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Quebec.
Product Details
- Brand – Fromagerie des Grondines
- Product – Festin Soft Cheese
- Size – Variable
- UPC Code – None
- Other Codes –
- Lot Number – 2024NO14
- “Meilleur Avant” – 2024.DE.19
Consumer Action
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected product even if they look or smell safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled product is requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
The affected product should be returned to the place of purchase or thrown away immediately.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface or utensils that have come into contact with the impacted product.
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 if there have been any reports of injuries or illnesses associated with consumption of the recalled product. Any consumer who has come into contact with the impacted item, and is experiencing sickness or symptoms of food poisoning, should contact their medical provider immediately.
The majority of E. coli strains are not harmful and play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut ecosystem by assisting in breaking down the food, contributing to the production of essential vitamins, and acting as a defense mechanism against more dangerous microorganisms.
However, not all E. coli are benign. Certain strains can cause a range of health issues in humans, including gastrointestinal distress resulting in diarrhea, infections of the urinary tract, respiratory ailments like pneumonia, and even severe systemic infections such as sepsis. Symptoms generally appear two to five days after exposure but can emerge anywhere from one to eight days later. Most people recover within 5-10 days.
Of particular concern, however, is the potential for some patients to develop Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS), a severe complication that can lead to kidney failure, neurological damage, and in extreme cases, death. This risk makes early medical intervention crucial for infected individuals.
https://www.foodpoisoningnews.com/the-difference-between-type-one-and-type-two-diabetes-and-why-it-matters/Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive bacterium that is commonly found not only on the skin and in the noses of healthy people, but also in raw food and food-producing animals. Staphylococcus aureus can cause severe illness, particularly in those suffering from cancer, diabetes, eczema, lung disease, and IV drug users.
Commenting on this article, the nation’s leading E. coli lawyer said, “Both E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus have the potential to cause extremely severe illnesses. Any consumer with the recalled cheese should return it to the store or throw it out immediately.”
