The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has issued a warning regarding a recall of specific Alasko brand frozen whole raspberries in seven provinces due to potential norovirus contamination. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus known to cause symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.
The recall was initiated following an investigation by the agency into a foodborne illness outbreak, as disclosed in the recent advisory. The statement mentioned that illnesses linked to the consumption of these products have been reported, without specifying the outbreak location or the number of affected individuals.
The impacted products consist of one-kilogram bags of Alasko whole raspberries (frozen) with the UPC code 6 95058 00205 4, and five-kilogram bags containing five one-kilogram bags of Alasko IQF whole raspberries with the UPC code 1 069505 800205 1. Both products bear a best before date of Nov. 10, 2027, the code PO#138602, and LOT# SY25314.
These products were distributed to the general public, hotels, restaurants, and institutions in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Ontario, and Manitoba. Consumers are advised not to consume, serve, use, sell, or distribute the recalled items and should either dispose of them or return them to the point of purchase.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency emphasized ongoing investigations that could potentially result in additional product recalls. The agency is also ensuring that the industry removes the recalled products from the market.
Regarding symptoms, individuals who suspect they have fallen ill from consuming the recalled items are urged to contact their healthcare provider. Norovirus symptoms can manifest as early as 12 hours after exposure and may include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, cramps, low-grade fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, and fatigue.
While there is no specific prescription medication for treating norovirus infections, most people typically recover within two to three days without long-term health consequences. To prevent dehydration from diarrhea or vomiting, the Public Health Agency of Canada recommends increased fluid intake. Severe cases may necessitate hospitalization for fluid replacement through intravenous therapy.
It is important to note that individuals can contract norovirus multiple times.
