Advisory

2001-116
November 1, 2001

Health Canada reminds Canadians of the dangers of unpasteurized fruit juice and cider

Ottawa - Health Canada is reminding Canadians that there is a chance that unpasteurized juice or cider may be contaminated with harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella, which can cause severe illness or death, especially in high-risk groups: young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.

To address this concern, Health Canada implemented a policy in August 2000. The policy encourages the food industry to use a Code of Practice and to label their products as "UNPASTEURIZED". It also involves educating consumers about the possible risks associated with such products.

As part of the efforts to raise public awareness about the risks associated with unpasteurized juice or cider, Health Canada has updated its pamphlet Unpasteurized Fruit Juice and Cider - Know What You are Drinking. The pamphlet is available in both HTML and PDF formats for easy downloading.

Media Inquiries:
Maganga Lumbu
Health Canada
(613) 957-1588