The Public Health Agency of Canada has confirmed 18 cases of listeriosis connected to Silk brand almond milk, coconut milk, almond-coconut milk, oat milk, and Great Value brand almond milk. CBC News
The recent contamination of plant-based milk has been traced to a factory in Pickering, Ontario, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The issue was identified at Joriki, a third-party packaging facility used by Danone Canada for its plant milk products. The contamination occurred on a dedicated production line at this facility, which has now been disassembled while the inspection is ongoing.
The contamination has been linked to listeriosis cases associated with Silk brand almond milk, coconut milk, almond-coconut milk, and oat milk, as well as Great Value brand almond milk. The Public Health Agency of Canada has reported 18 confirmed cases of listeriosis connected to these products, affecting individuals in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and Nova Scotia. Among these cases, there have been 13 hospitalizations and two fatalities in Ontario, specifically in Toronto and Peel.
Following the discovery, Joriki suspended production at the affected plant. The company expressed deep regret over the deaths and injuries linked to the outbreak, extending condolences to the affected families. Joriki emphasized that the contamination was isolated to one specific production line and assured that no other products from their facility were believed to be impacted.
The recall of the affected plant-based milk was first announced on July 8. Health experts have noted that Listeria can cause illness up to two months after consuming contaminated products, contributing to the prolonged nature of the outbreak. The products involved in the recall have best-before dates up to October 4 and include the product code number 7825.
The CFIA has stated that production on the contaminated line will not resume until corrective measures are fully implemented and the source of the contamination is addressed. Both Danone Canada and Joriki are cooperating with the CFIA to investigate and enhance safety protocols to prevent future issues.
In response to the outbreak, Justin Giovannetti, a class-action lawyer, has advised consumers who experienced illness from the affected products to document their experiences. He highlighted the importance of holding companies accountable for consumer safety.
