Listeria Outbreak Linked to Silk Non-Dairy Milk in Canada: Death Toll Rises to Three

A severe listeria outbreak in Canada has been traced to non-dairy milk products under the Silk brand, resulting in three deaths and 20 confirmed illnesses. The outbreak has raised concerns nationwide, as public health officials work to control the spread of this dangerous bacterial infection.

Details of the Outbreak

The Public Health Agency of Canada first issued an alert on July 17, 2024, warning consumers to avoid certain Silk and Great Value non-dairy milk products. These plant-based drinks, including almond, oat, coconut, and cashew milk, were produced by Danone Canada and have been linked to the outbreak. Initially, two deaths and 12 illnesses were reported, but an update on August 12, 2024, revealed a third death and eight additional cases. Of the 20 cases, 15 individuals required hospitalization.

The majority of cases have been reported in Ontario (13 cases), with others in Quebec (5 cases), Alberta (1 case), and Nova Scotia (1 case). The individuals affected by the outbreak fell ill between August 2023 and early July 2024. Due to the incubation period of listeriosis, more cases may still be reported.

Recall and Investigation

In response to the outbreak, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has initiated an extensive investigation, leading to the recall of affected products. The recalled items, which have best-by dates extending into September and October 2024, were distributed exclusively in Canada. A complete list of the 18 products recalled is available on the CFIA’s website.

Danone Canada, the parent company of the Silk brand, has taken swift action by halting production at the implicated third-party manufacturing facility. The company has shifted production to other facilities and increased testing protocols to ensure product safety. Frédéric Guichard, president of Canadian operations for Danone, reassured consumers through an Instagram post in July that all recalled products have been removed from store shelves and warehouses.

Listeria: A Persistent Threat

Listeria is a bacteria that can contaminate food products, leading to a potentially life-threatening infection known as listeriosis. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 1,600 people are infected with listeria annually, with around 260 resulting in death.

In the U.S., listeria outbreaks have also been prevalent in recent months. A notable incident involved Boar’s Head deli meats, which were linked to three deaths and 40 hospitalizations across 13 states. Another outbreak in February 2024 was traced to cheese products from Rizo-López Foods, leading to two deaths and 23 hospitalizations. Other recalls have included cucumbers, vegetables, and ice cream due to potential listeria contamination.

Public Health Response

The CFIA and the Public Health Agency of Canada are continuing their efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent further cases. Consumers are advised to check their refrigerators for any recalled products and to avoid consuming them. Public health officials emphasize the importance of staying informed about food recalls and practicing safe food handling to reduce the risk of listeria infection.

As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on protecting public health and preventing additional tragedies related to this deadly outbreak.