The Public Health Agency of Canada has reported that a third person has tragically died in a listeria outbreak connected to Great Value and Silk plant-based milks. This brings the total number of confirmed listeriosis cases to 20 across Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Alberta. The first two deaths were already announced by the Ontario Ministry of Health, but the location of the third fatality is still unknown.
The affected products include Great Value brand almond milk with best before dates up to and including October 4, as well as Silk brand almond milk, coconut milk, almond-coconut milk, and oat milk. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has determined that Listeria contamination originated from a specific Joriki manufacturing line in Pickering, Ontario. This facility is used by Danone Canada for packaging their beverages.
Listeria is a type of bacterium that can cause listeriosis—an infection with potentially serious consequences. Symptoms may include nausea, diarrhea, fever, and muscle pain. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and other parts of the body leading to more severe complications like meningitis. Those with compromised immune systems, elderly individuals, and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to listeriosis.
To investigate the outbreak and prevent further illnesses from occurring, the Public Health Agency of Canada is working closely with provincial and federal partners. The government advises customers to either discard any affected items or return them to their place of purchase. Additionally, they recommend thoroughly cleaning any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with these products in order to eliminate any potential contamination.
Deputy Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Howard Njoo emphasizes the importance of proper food handling and storage practices in reducing the risk of listeriosis. He advises individuals not to take chances with potentially contaminated food items even if they appear fine or smell normal.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is collaborating with Danone Canada—the manufacturer—to address this issue promptly and ensure product safety. Danone Canada has voluntarily removed all affected items from store shelves during this recall process in an effort to prevent further spread of Listeria.
While investigations are ongoing regarding this outbreak situation customers should remain vigilant about food safety precautions recommended by health authorities such as proper handling and consumption practices in order reduce their risk for listeriosis
