| Q. |
What is deadstock? |
| A. |
Deadstock is a term used for animals that spontaneously die on the farm, in
the field or in transit, of natural causes, injury or disease. Due to the unknown cause of
death, deadstock are considered to be a high-risk element and are forbidden from entering
the food supply. These animals must be buried, burned or rendered after death. |
| Q. |
What is the risk to the public regarding this product? |
| A. |
Meat derived from deadstock could pose a health risk from exposure to an
elevated level of pathogens or antibiotic residues. Antibiotic residues may cause a
possible allergic reaction in susceptible individuals. The recall order was issued on a
precautionary basis to protect public health. |
| Q. |
I have heard reports of incidences of illness related to the
recalled products. Can you confirm this? |
| A. |
The illness outbreak investigation being conducted by Ontario Provincial
authorities is ongoing to determine if there is any link to the recalled products. |
| Q. |
What do I do if I think I have this product in my freezer? |
| A. |
It may be difficult to identify the Aylmer product because it has gone to
retailers/distributors in a form that was cut up or further processed by the retailers
prior to sale, so it may not bear Aylmer packaging or label. Consumers are advised to
review the list issued with the CFIA’s food recall notice and, if they have purchased
beef products from any place on that list, not to consume the product and to contact the
retailer to find out its origin.
Consumers are also advised to check the CFIA Web site for updates to the list of
primary distribution outlets. As information about secondary outlets or branded products
made from Aylmer Meat Packers products becomes available, the CFIA will also post these on
its Web site.
If it has been determined that the product is from Aylmer Meat Packers, consumers are
advised to dispose of the product immediately. |
| Q. |
If I get sick from eating Aylmer Meat products, what should I do? |
| A. |
Health Canada advises that if you have consumed Aylmer Meat Packers Inc.
meat and are exhibiting any adverse health reaction or symptoms of food-borne illness, you
are urged to contact your physician or clinic to indicate that you may have consumed
contaminated meat. You are also asked to alert your local Public Health Unit. |
| Q. |
Why hasn’t the CFIA expanded the recall to include other meat
products from Aylmer Meat Packers Inc.? |
| A. |
Provincial authorities have not provided any evidence that the extent of
the problem extended beyond beef. We have asked the Province to provide additional
information as it becomes available. |
