In the news

The CFIA reports that it has recalled multiple batches/lots of numerous Salads and Deli Meals containing Broccoli from the Canadian marketplace due to suspected Listeria monocytogenes contamination. These Prepared Salads and Deli Meals containing Broccoli were marketed, distributed, and sold in the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.@ https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/inspection/2021/76237r-eng.php

The FDA reported that since July 21, 2021, additional cases have been identified in this outbreak, and the investigation was reopened. At least one ill person consumed shrimp that are not a part of the current recall. Due to this new information, on August 10, 2021, the FDA asked Avanti Frozen Foods (Indiana) to expand its initial recall to prevent additional illnesses. On August 13, 2021, Avanti Frozen Foods expanded its recall of frozen cooked shrimp to include frozen cooked shrimp products imported into the U.S. from November 2020 to May 2021. This outbreak has 9 illnesses, 3 hospitalizations, and no death. States with Cases: AZ (2), MI (2), NV (4), RI (1).  @ https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-salmonella-weltevreden-shrimp-april-2021?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

The FDA reported that Ballreich Snack Food Co. Tiffin, Ohio, recalled its 1.5oz, 2.75oz, and 7oz packages of BAR-B-Q Potato Chips due to potential contamination with Salmonella. The recalled BAR-B-Q seasoned Potato Chips were distributed regional at retails and convenience stores within Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, and Central Ohio and around Southern, MI, and Northeast Indiana. The product is sold in 1.5oz, 2.75oz, and 7oz bags. No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this occurrence. The potential for contamination was discovered after routine testing conducting by the seasoning provider. The production of the product has been suspended. The FDA and the seasoning company continue to investigate the source of the problem. @ https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/ballreich-snack-food-company-recalls-bar-b-q-seasoned-potato-chips-because-possible-health-risk

The FAO and WHO published a “Review of Risk Assessment Tools for Vibrio,” reporting on an expert meeting held at the Centre for Environment Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) in the United Kingdom in May 2019. The number of Vibrio species being recognized as potential human pathogens is increasing. There have been a series of pandemic outbreaks of V. parahaemolyticus foodborne illnesses due to seafood consumption. The meeting evaluated an existing risk calculator and modifications needed. The development of microbiological monitoring methods, particularly molecular methods for V. parahaemolyticus and V. vulnificus, is evolving rapidly, and the method of choice is not yet ready. A linear relationship between levels of the vibrios in seawater was not found. Several models were found appropriate for estimating growth. If the models are used, there should be a clear understanding of the associated uncertainty. A data gap was found, which needs to be addressed before the risk assessments could be expanded in a meaningful manner. @ https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/330867