Several Silk plant-based milks affected by a nationwide recall are gradually returning to shelves following a listeria outbreak that has resulted in the deaths of three people in Canada. The contamination was traced to a specific production line at a factory in Pickering, Ont., which has been shut down for inspection. However, other facilities are increasing production, and Danone Canada, the manufacturer of Silk beverages, has ramped up testing to ensure the safety of their products. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is continuing its investigation into the outbreak linked to the recalled plant-based milks sold by Silk and Walmart’s Great Value brand.
At least 20 cases of listeriosis, the illness caused by listeria bacteria, have been reported in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and Nova Scotia, resulting in 15 hospitalizations and three deaths in Ontario. The illnesses occurred between August 2023 and mid-July 2024. The CFIA issued the recall on July 8 for 15 types of almond, coconut, oat, and cashew milks sold by Silk, as well as three almond milks from Great Value. The affected products were made on a dedicated production line in Pickering, which has been completely disassembled for inspection. Production on this line will not resume until corrective measures are implemented and contamination is eliminated.
Danone’s spokesperson stated that no Silk products have been produced at the impacted Pickering facility since July 6. The company is actively investigating the cause of the contamination in collaboration with the CFIA and their third-party manufacturer. Two class-action lawsuits have been filed in British Columbia and Quebec against Danone and Walmart Canada over the listeria outbreak associated with the recalled plant-based milks. Listeria is a type of bacteria commonly found in soil that can cause foodborne illness in humans, with symptoms such as gastrointestinal issues, fever, muscle aches, and in severe cases, possible death.
Silk plant-based milks have begun to gradually reappear on store shelves following the listeria outbreak, with production increasing in other facilities while testing and sanitation measures are heightened to ensure product safety. The CFIA is continuing its investigation into the outbreak that has resulted in 20 reported cases of listeriosis in Canada, including hospitalizations and fatalities. The recall issued for the affected products has prompted Danone Canada and Walmart Canada to take action in investigating the contamination and implementing necessary measures to prevent further outbreaks. Consumers are advised to be cautious and follow proper food safety practices to avoid listeria-related illnesses.
