**E. Coli Found In Italian Cheese: Recall In Canada**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 07, 2024

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E. coli Found in Italian Cheese: Recall in Canada

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a recall for specific types of Italian cheese due to the potential presence of E. coli O157:H7. This potentially dangerous bacteria can cause severe food poisoning, leading to serious complications. The recall impacts consumers across Canada, highlighting the importance of food safety awareness and adherence to proper handling practices.

What Cheese is Recalled?

The recall specifically targets imported Italian cheese, including:

• Gorgonzola dolce
• Taleggio
• Provolone dolce
• Scamorza
• Mozzarella di bufala

The CFIA has identified the specific brands and product codes affected. Consumers are urged to check their refrigerators and discard any matching products immediately.

The Dangers of E. coli

E. coli O157:H7 is a strain of bacteria commonly found in contaminated food, particularly raw or undercooked meat. It can also be present in unpasteurized milk and cheese, which are susceptible to bacterial contamination.

Ingesting E. coli can lead to severe food poisoning, characterized by:

• Diarrhea (often bloody)
• Severe abdominal cramps
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Dehydration

In severe cases, E. coli infection can cause life-threatening complications like:

• Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)
• Kidney failure
• Death

Children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable to the severe effects of E. coli infection.

What to Do if You Have Affected Cheese

If you have purchased any of the recalled cheeses, the CFIA advises you to:

• Immediately discard the product. Do not consume it.
• Check your refrigerator and discard any affected cheese, even if it has been previously opened.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling the recalled cheese.

Preventing E. coli Infections

The best way to protect yourself and your family from E. coli infections is to practice proper food safety:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
• Cook meat thoroughly to the recommended internal temperature.
• Keep raw meat separate from other foods.
• Wash all surfaces and utensils that have come into contact with raw meat or cheese.
• Choose pasteurized milk and cheese products.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.

Staying Informed

The CFIA website provides up-to-date information on all food recalls in Canada. You can sign up for email notifications to receive alerts about important food safety issues. By staying informed and following the recommended guidelines, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting E. coli and other foodborne illnesses.