The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall of various European Butcher brand bacon products 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 presence of Listeria was discovered during CFIA testing.
The affected products were distributed in the province of Ontario. CFIA said they are verifying that the recalled products are being removed from store shelves.
CFIA also said they are investigating the incident, which could lead to other product recalls.
Product Details
| Product | Size | UPC Code | Codes |
| European Butcher Canadian back bacon half | Variable | Starting with 0 215096 | Batch #177 |
| European Butcher Canadian back bacon chunks | Starting with 0 200386 | ||
| European Butcher Canadian back bacon sliced | Starting with 0 200029 |
Consumer Action
Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators and freezers for the affected product and dispose of it immediately. They should also clean and sanitize any surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated cheese to prevent cross-contamination
Consumers with the recalled product should discontinue use even if it looks or smells safe to eat.
Consumers can return the products to the place of purchase.
Health Risks
As of now, no illnesses or adverse reactions in connection to 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.
Consumers who are experiencing symptoms of Listeriosis should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Food Poisoning News has recently reported on multiple incidents of Listeria contamination in both Canada and the United States, including the third death linked to Listeria contaminated non-dairy Silk drink products and an investigation launched into a multistate outbreak tied to Boar’s Head deli meats.
Commenting on this story, one national Listeria lawyer said, “Tragically, we have seen several deaths in North America tied to the consumption of Listeria-contaminated food products. I strongly advise any consumer in possession of the recalled bacon products to throw them away right now to minimize the risk of danger to themselves and their family.”
