The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall by Rana of its Tagliatelle Seasoned White Chicken & Mushroom Sauce meal kit in Canada due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria). Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Background
Distribution
The recalled product was distributed nationwide across Canada.
Product Details
The recalled product is:
- Rana brand Tagliatelle Seasoned White Chicken & Mushroom Sauce
- Packages weighing 1.14 kg
- Best before dates of Oct. 10 up to and including Nov. 16
- UPC code 8 77448 00481 1
Consumer Action
As with all food recalls, consumers are strongly advised to discontinue use of the affected products even if they look or smell safe to eat.
Anyone in possession of the recalled products are requested to not sell, serve, or distribute them.
The recalled product can be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund with proof of purchase or should be disposed of properly.
Consumers should thoroughly sanitize any surface or utensils that came into contact with the recalled product.
Consumers with additional questions or concerns can contact CFIA toll free in Canada and the United States at 800-442-2342 or by email at [email protected].
Health Risks
There have not been any reports of illness or injury in connection with the consumption of the impacted products.
Listeriosis, the infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, is particularly dangerous for certain vulnerable populations. Pregnant individuals, people aged 65 or older, and those with weakened immune systems are at highest risk. Symptoms can include fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions, sometimes preceded by gastrointestinal symptoms. In pregnant individuals, listeriosis can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of Listeriosis should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Commenting on this story, one national Listeria lawyer said, “This is another recall connected to the larger recall by BrucePac in the United States of meat and chicken products due to possible Listeria contamination. Listeria can cause severe illness so I strongly recommend consumers stop use of the recalled product immediately.”
The Dangers of Listeria
Listeria monocytogenes, commonly known as Listeria, is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness, especially in pregnant women, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
How Listeria Spreads
Listeria is typically found in soil, sewage, and untreated water. It can contaminate various food sources, including:
- Meat
- Seafood
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Dairy Products
Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the risk of Listeria infection, including:
-
Pregnant Women: Listeria can cause serious complications during pregnancy, leading to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infection in the newborn. Pregnant women are advised to avoid consuming foods that could be contaminated with Listeria.
-
Elderly Individuals: As individuals age, their immune systems naturally weaken, making them more susceptible to infections like Listeria.
-
People with Weakened Immune Systems: Individuals with compromised immune systems due to illnesses like HIV, cancer, or organ transplantation are at heightened risk of developing severe Listeria infections.
Symptoms of Listeriosis
The symptoms of listeriosis can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual’s health and immune status. Common symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Persistent fever
- Muscle aches
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
In severe cases, Listeria infection can spread to the brain and cause meningitis or septicemia, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of severe listeriosis may appear up to 70 days after exposure to Listeria.
Prevention
While Listeria infections can be serious, there are several steps individuals can take to reduce their risk of exposure:
-
Thoroughly Cook Meat and Poultry: Ensure meat and poultry are cooked to the appropriate internal temperature to kill any potential Listeria bacteria.
-
Wash Fruits and Vegetables: Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water to remove any surface contamination.
-
Pasteurize Milk and Dairy Products: Choose pasteurized milk and dairy products as pasteurization effectively eliminates Listeria bacteria.
-
Refrigerate Foods Properly: Store perishable foods at or below 4°C (40°F) to slow the growth of bacteria, including Listeria.
-
Practice Good Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food, especially raw meat or poultry.
-
Clean Kitchen Surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect kitchen surfaces, utensils, and cutting boards, especially after handling raw meat or poultry.
Importance of Food Safety
The recall of Rana brand Tagliatelle Seasoned White Chicken & Mushroom Sauce highlights the importance of food safety and the role of government agencies in protecting public health. The CFIA, along with other organizations, plays a crucial role in ensuring food safety standards are upheld to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses.
Staying Informed
Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about food safety recalls and other relevant information by checking the CFIA website or subscribing to their email alerts. By staying vigilant and following food safety guidelines, we can help reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and protect our health.
