The Canadian Food Inspection Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Naz’s Falafel House Inc., dba Mawasem Trading Inc., have issued a voluntary recall of Al-Watan brand tahini due to potential Salmonella contamination. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious infections in animals and humans, especially those in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
The company did not say how the potential presence of Salmonella was discovered.
This is classified by the CFIA as a Class II recall, meaning that the recalled product has a remote chance of causing a health hazard.
The CFIA is conducting a food safety investigation. This may lead to additonal product recalls. The CFIA will also verify that the product has been removed from store shelves.
Distribution
The recalled product was distributed only in the Canadian province of Ontario.
Product Details
- Brand Name: Al-Watan
- Product: Tahini
- Size: 18 kg
- UPC Code: 6 224000 108045
- Other Codes/Information: All “PRO” dates up to and including 8 /2024
Consumer Action
Consumers should check their homes and businesses for the recalled products.
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 is requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface, utensils, or containers that have come into contact with the impacted products.
The recalled items should be returned to the point of purchase or should be disposed of immediately.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact the CFIA by phone toll free in Canada or the United States at 800-442-2342 or at 613-773-2342 or via email at [email protected].
Health Risks
No illnesses or injuries in connection with the consumption of the recalled product have been reported. Any consumers who are experiencing symptoms after contact with the affected product should contact their medical provider.
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in humans. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, appearing six hours to six days after exposure to the bacteria. While most people recover without specific treatment, the infection can be severe, especially for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Commenting on this article, the nation’s leading Salmonella lawyer said, “Salmonella infection is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness. Consumers in possession of the recalled product should reduce their risk of infection by returning or throwing away the recalled product.”
