A major yogurt maker is recalling one of its brands in Canada over concerns that it may cause illness in immunocompromised people.
Danone Canada is asking consumers who bought its Kirkland Signature Probiotic Yogurt to avoid eating the product. The yogurt was sold in 24 packs of 100-gram servings, with the Costco item identification number 1264134.
Consumers can return it to a Costco warehouse to obtain a full refund, the company added. It said the yogurt may have a type of yeast that could cause illness.
"The food safety risk is low as this yeast is not known to grow in refrigerated temperatures," Danone Canada said in a written notice Monday that Costco sent to affected customers and posted on its website. "We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause."
The affected products have "best before" dates Oct. 18, 20 and 22.
Those who want more information can contact the company via email at [email protected], or call 1-888-846-8203 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET from Monday to Friday, excluding holidays.
Yogurt Recall Concerns
This is the second time in a month that a brand of yogurt sold at Costco is being recalled. Earlier in September, 24-packs of Greek yogurt under Costco's Kirkland Signature brand were recalled due to mould. The recalled products were distributed in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec and Saskatchewan, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
More Than Just Yogurt
The recent yogurt recalls highlight the importance of food safety practices and the need for consumers to be vigilant about products they purchase. It is essential to check labels, best-before dates, and be aware of any recalls or warnings issued by health authorities. While the risk associated with this particular yeast contamination is considered low, it is crucial for individuals with compromised immune systems to exercise caution and avoid consuming the recalled yogurt.
Keeping Our Food Safe
Food safety is a shared responsibility. Consumers play a critical role in preventing foodborne illnesses by adopting safe food handling practices such as washing hands thoroughly, keeping food refrigerated, and cooking meat to the appropriate temperature. Additionally, it is important to remain informed about food safety regulations and recall notices. By working together, we can ensure the safety of our food supply and protect ourselves and our communities from foodborne illnesses.
A Lesson in Vigilance
The repeated recalls involving yogurt products underscore the importance of vigilance when it comes to food safety. Consumers should always check product labels and best-before dates, and stay informed about any recalls or warnings issued by health authorities. The incidents also emphasize the need for manufacturers to implement robust quality control measures to prevent such issues from recurring. While the risk associated with this particular yeast contamination is considered low, it is crucial to prioritize food safety and act cautiously when necessary.
It's More Than Yogurt: A Deeper Dive into Food Safety
These events are more than just isolated incidents involving a specific brand of yogurt. They represent a broader issue concerning food safety practices and the potential for contamination in the food supply chain. This highlights the need for increased vigilance and collaboration between manufacturers, regulators, and consumers to ensure the safety of our food supply. By working together, we can take steps to mitigate risks and protect ourselves and our communities from foodborne illnesses.
