Initially targeting walnuts from California producer Andersen and Sons, an urgent warning about nuts and nut-based snack foods that could have been contaminated with the bacterium E. coli has been broadened by Toronto-based Johnvince Foods.
The recall, which commenced September 1 has expanded to include mixed nuts, trail mix and walnut halves and pieces. Packaged nuts with no walnuts listed – namely Compliments Salted Corn or Cashews and FreshCo Natural Almonds – have also been added to the list.
The suspect nuts have been traced to popular brands sold by Loblaw’s, No Frills, Compliments and Longo’s, Stock & Barrel and FreshCo., and now, at least 22 small stores predominately located in southern Ontario, including the GTA, Sarnia, Elmira, Waterloo, Guelph, Niagara Falls and St. Catharines have been named.
The nuts are feared to be laced with E. coli 0157:H7, a serious strain of the bacteria that can trigger stomach cramps, diarrhea, strokes, kidney failure and even death, however no illnesses from exposure have been reported to date, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency said Friday.
Consumers and retailers are directed to call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 and consult the agency’s four news releases for a complete list of stores and products.