Salami and cacciatore products that caused a salmonella outbreak were also sold in British Columbia and Saskatchewan, health officials confirmed. The number of people who have become ill from eating these contaminated meats has now risen to 87 across Canada. Of these, nine individuals have been hospitalized.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency had earlier reported that the affected products were sold in Ontario, Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec. With the addition of B.C. and Saskatchewan, the contaminated meat has now been found in six provinces.
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness. It spreads through contaminated food, water, or surfaces and can affect anyone, but certain groups are more at risk. These include children, pregnant individuals, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of salmonella infection often include fever, headache, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. These symptoms may start within six to 72 hours after eating the tainted food and can last for several days. In healthy individuals, symptoms usually go away without medical treatment, but in some cases, the infection can become severe and even life-threatening.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is still investigating how the contamination occurred. Several types of ready-to-eat meats, including packaged salami and dry-cured cacciatore sausages, have already been recalled from store shelves. Consumers are being urged to check their fridges and avoid eating any of the recalled products.
Retailers and suppliers have been told to remove the affected meats immediately. The food safety agency is working with manufacturers and distributors to identify the source of the problem and prevent any more contaminated products from reaching customers.
Health officials recommend that consumers take precautions when handling and storing deli meats. People should wash their hands thoroughly before and after touching any type of meat, and clean all utensils and surfaces that come into contact with raw or packaged meat.
Anyone who believes they may have eaten one of the recalled products and begins to feel sick should contact a healthcare provider. It is important to mention the possible link to contaminated food when seeking medical advice. Even if you are not showing symptoms, it is best not to serve these products to children, older adults, pregnant individuals, or those who are already ill, as they may be more vulnerable to serious infection.
While most people recover from salmonella without any lasting effects, complications can occur. These include dehydration, bloodstream infections, and in rare cases, long-term joint problems. If you or someone in your household shows signs of severe illness—such as high fever, bloody diarrhea, or signs of dehydration—seek medical help immediately.
The bacteria can also spread from person to person, especially if proper hygiene is not followed. Washing hands regularly, storing food safely, and avoiding cross-contamination in the kitchen are simple steps that can help stop the spread.
Public health officials are monitoring the situation closely and continuing to track new cases as they appear. Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues. In the meantime, people are encouraged to stay informed, follow food safety guidelines, and avoid eating any recalled products.
