November 3, 2006

Advice to Consumers

Update: Salmonella in the United States

OTTAWA, November 3, 2006 - This is an update to the Advice to Consumers issued on November 2, 2006. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) identified tomatoes consumed in restaurants as being the likely source of the Salmonella typhimurium outbreaks reported in several U.S. states.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) are working with US officials to understand the origin and cause of the contaminated tomatoes. Once that is known, and if the traceback investigation suggests that contaminated tomatoes may have entered Canada, the CFIA will take appropriate actions to protect Canadian consumers.

The CFIA is taking the precautionary step of encouraging the Canadian Restaurant and Foodservices Association (CRFA) to advise its members of this development and of the measures they can take to protect consumers and restaurant patrons. These include proper storage, handling and cooking practices and thoroughly washing fresh fruits and vegetables before serving. Their staff should also wash their hands and utensils, such as knives and cutting boards, before preparing meals and after any contact with raw foods.

For more information about salmonella and food safety, consult the following fact sheets:
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/concen/cause/salmonellae.shtml
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/concen/specif/fruvege.shtml

For information:

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Media relations: (613) 228-6682

Public Health Agency of Canada
Media Relations: (613) 948-7970