Loblaw Companies Ltd. has issued a recall for President’s Choice brand sliced white mushrooms in response to tests revealing contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The affected mushrooms were distributed in the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, with the potential for distribution to other provinces and territories, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

Key Details of the Recall:

• Distribution: The implicated sliced white mushrooms were distributed to various establishments, including retailers, hotels, restaurants, and institutions.
• No Illnesses Reported: As of the recall notice posting, there have been no confirmed illnesses associated with the consumption of the recalled mushrooms.
• Action Urged: The CFIA urges consumers and entities that may have recently purchased these mushrooms to check if they have the affected product. If so, the mushrooms should be discarded or returned to the place of purchase.
• Identifying the Recalled Mushrooms: The recalled mushrooms can be identified by specific label information, including the brand “President’s Choice,” the product name “White Sliced Mushrooms,” a size of 454 g, and the UPC code 0 60383 05934 7, with an expiry date of 2023 OC 30 CM.

The CFIA is actively conducting a food safety investigation to assess the situation. This investigation may result in the recall of additional products, and the agency is also ensuring that the industry is effectively removing the recalled mushrooms from the marketplace.

About Listeria Infections:

Listeria monocytogenes contamination may not be discernible by sight or smell, yet it can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening infections. Individuals who have consumed the recalled mushrooms and exhibit symptoms of Listeria infection are advised to seek medical attention and inform their healthcare providers about the possible exposure to Listeria. Diagnosis of Listeria infections requires specific laboratory testing due to their resemblance to other illnesses.

Additionally, those who have consumed the affected products should remain vigilant for symptoms over the coming weeks, as it can take up to 70 days after exposure for Listeria-related symptoms to manifest.

Symptoms of Listeria infection encompass vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache, and neck stiffness. Specific laboratory tests are crucial for accurately diagnosing Listeria infections due to their similarity to other ailments.

Particular caution should be exercised by pregnant women, the elderly, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems, including cancer patients, as they are more susceptible to severe illnesses, life-threatening infections, and other complications resulting from Listeria exposure. Pregnant women, in particular, should be aware that Listeria infections can have serious consequences for both themselves and their newborns.

Source:https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/president-s-choice-brand-white-sliced-mushrooms-recalled-due-listeria-monocytogenes