Two people have died after a listeriosis outbreak prompted the recall of plant-based beverages.
Nearly 20 Silk and Great Value-brand refrigerated milk products were pulled from shelves due to concerns about potential listeria contamination on July 8.
The Public Health Agency of Canada issued an update Wednesday confirming two deaths but did not provide further details.
According to the agency, 12 people have become ill in Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia. Nine people have been hospitalized.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency says food contaminated with listeria may not look or smell spoiled but can still make you sick.
Symptoms can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. In severe cases of illness, people may die.
Pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk. The infection can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn, or even stillbirth.
Silk brand’s owner issues statement regarding Public Health notice of deaths
Fifteen of the products recalled are Silk brand, which is owned by Danone.
The president of Danone Canada, Frédéric Guichard, issued a statement on Wednesday:
“The news in this notice is devastating and our most sincere sympathies go out to the families and loved ones during this difficult time. We would like to reassure our consumers that we have conducted the recall and have removed the affected products from retail shelves, in close collaboration with our retail partners. We are working with the utmost seriousness and in close partnership with the authorities to thoroughly investigate and shed light on the circumstances surrounding this event. Food safety, quality, and the health of our consumers are, and will always be, at the core of everything we do. We are committed to providing updates as more information becomes available.”
Consumers who have purchased the recalled products are urged to follow the instructions provided by the CFIA and refrain from consuming them.
Contact Danone Canada’s customer service at 1-866-233-5410 or visit www.silkcanada.ca/contact-us/ for guidance on safe disposal and more consumer information.
