Canadian authorities are urging caution regarding Iranian pistachios imported to the country, advising that these products must undergo testing for salmonella before being sold. This directive follows an ongoing investigation into a salmonella outbreak that has resulted in 155 confirmed cases nationwide, with potentially more unreported cases. Out of the affected individuals, 24 required hospitalization, but fortunately, there have been no fatalities. The illnesses occurred between March and November.
Consumers are being advised to avoid pistachios from Iran and products containing Iranian pistachios due to potential salmonella contamination. The Public Health Agency of Canada highlighted that many affected individuals had consumed pistachios or related products like Dubai-style chocolate and pastries. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued recalls for various brands of pistachios and pistachio-containing items, including Dubai pistachios and knafeh milk chocolate. The investigation is ongoing, and additional products may be linked to the outbreak.
Salmonella, a foodborne bacterial infection, can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting, nausea, cramps, and diarrhea. The bacteria can contaminate nuts like pistachios during growth, harvest, or processing. Health officials are urging consumers, retailers, and food establishments across Canada to check CFIA’s recall listings and dispose of or return any affected products. It is important to note that heat treatment may not eliminate salmonella in pistachios due to the bacteria’s resilience in dry foods.
Regarding the chocolate products containing pistachios, food scientists emphasize that processing may not eradicate salmonella bacteria. The importation ban on Iranian pistachios by Canada, in place since September 27 as a preventive measure, underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring food safety. The CFIA has mandated that all importers and manufacturers with Iranian pistachios imported before the ban must conduct salmonella testing before selling them.
This proactive approach aligns with previous responses to food safety concerns, such as the handling of contaminated romaine lettuce. While determining the origin of pistachios is crucial, implementing effective decontamination methods is equally essential to safeguard public health. The collaboration between regulatory authorities, industry stakeholders, and consumers is vital in mitigating the risks associated with foodborne illnesses.
