Loblaw Expands Food Recall Amid Widespread Salmonella Outbreak in Canada
Loblaw Companies is recalling additional products from its stores as part of an ongoing food recall linked to a major salmonella outbreak that has sickened dozens across Canada.
Health officials are urging customers to check their refrigerators and freezers, as the recalled items were sold in Ontario grocery stores under Loblaw-owned banners, including Loblaws, Your Independent Grocer, Fortinos, Valu-Mart, and Zehrs, between December 2024 and January 2025.
The outbreak has already resulted in 69 reported illnesses and 22 hospitalizations across five provinces. In response, Loblaw is now recalling D. Effe T.-brand Lemon Delight and Tartlet with Forest Fruits after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) identified potential contamination. These pastries, sold at service counters in Ontario stores, are being removed from the market while the investigation continues.
The CFIA warns that because these pastries were often sold in smaller, unlabeled packages at service counters, customers may struggle to identify them by brand or lot code. Officials recommend that if you’re unsure whether you’ve purchased the affected products, either contact the store or dispose of them.
Loblaw advises customers to “destroy or return” the recalled products for a full refund. This latest recall follows a previous one involving Sweet Cream-brand mini pastries, which were also linked to the same outbreak. Many affected individuals had consumed the recalled products at catered events or food establishments.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation and urge consumers to stay cautious about potentially contaminated food.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), food contaminated with salmonella may not appear or smell spoiled but can still cause serious illness. Symptoms often include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe stomach cramps.
While most healthy individuals recover from a salmonella infection on their own, the bacteria can pose greater risks to young children, pregnant individuals, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically develop within 6 to 72 hours after exposure.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is continuing its investigation and has not ruled out the possibility of additional recalls. Officials advise that if you have recently purchased the affected products, it’s safest to dispose of them immediately.
For more details, visit Loblaw’s website or contact their customer service line.
