Related alerts:
2007-07-27 |
2007-07-22b |
Product Photos
2007-07-22 |
2007-07-19b |
2007-07-19
Ottawa, Ontario, July 27, 2007 The Government of Canada is reminding
consumers about certain chili products recalled from Wal-Mart stores on
July 22,
2007 due to potential serious health risks.
The recalled products may contain the Clostridium botulinum (botulism)
toxin, which can cause paralysis, respiratory failure, and, in severe cases,
death. Consumers who have purchased Great Value Original Chili with Beans,
sold in 425 g cans bearing UPC 6 81131 79994 2 and Great Value Hot Chili
with Beans, sold in 425 g cans bearing UPC 6 81131 79995 9, should dispose
of these products immediately. These products were sold exclusively at Wal-Mart
stores across Canada. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is monitoring
the effectiveness of this recall.
The CFIA has already issued three public advisories warning consumers about
this issue. However, given the potential health risks, the long shelf life of
the products and the seasonal likelihood that these types of products could be
used at cottages, while camping or travelling, the Government of Canada is
undertaking an enhanced public awareness effort.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has shared this information with
provincial and local health officials through the Canadian Integrated Outbreak
Surveillance Centre, which is a secure web-based alert system used to distribute
public health information to public health officials across the country. In
addition, PHAC officials have been in contact with their provincial counterparts
by phone and by e-mail.
The manufacturer,
Castleberry’s (www.castleberrys.com), is also recalling
four varieties of dog food manufactured in the same facility as the recalled
chili. Consumers are also advised to dispose of 15 oz cans of Natural Balance
Eatables for Dogs sold in the following varieties: Irish Stew with Beef,
Potatoes and Carrots, Hobo Chili with Chicken and Pasta, Southern
Style Dumplings with Gravy with Chicken and Vegetables, and
Chinese Take-Out With Sauce With Vegetables and Chicken. Inadvertent
exposure or cross-contamination while handling these products could result in
human illness.
The Government of Canada is also conducting a national media blitz and is
working with retailers of the chili and pet food to raise awareness among
consumers who may have purchased products before their recall.
Currently a larger recall involving numerous products and brands is underway
in the United States. Anyone who has or plans to purchase canned chili or other
canned meat products in the U.S. should consult the United States Food and Drug
Administration’s website at www.fda.gov for a complete list of recalled
products. Additional information about the U.S. recall is available through the
Centres for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov.
Updated information will be posted to the Canadian Food Inspection’s Web site
at www.inspection.gc.ca as it becomes available.
Food contaminated with c. botulinum toxin may not look or smell
spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with the toxin may initially cause
nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, headache, double vision or dry throat.
Anyone who thinks they may have consumed potentially affected products should
consult a physician immediately. Similarly, pet owners who notice signs of
illness in their animals should contact a veterinarian.
For information on c. botulinum, visit the
Food Facts web page at
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/concen/cause/botulisme.shtml
For information on receiving recalls by e-mail, or for other food safety
facts, visit our web site at www.inspection.gc.ca.
For further information:
CFIA Media
Relations
613-228-6682
Jean Riverin
Public Health Agency of Canada
613-941-8189
