Frozen Raspberries Recalled in Canada Over Norovirus Concerns

Alasko brand frozen whole raspberries have been recalled due to potential norovirus contamination. Health Canada/handout photo

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is recalling two lots of frozen raspberries over possible norovirus contamination.

The recall affects Alasko brand Whole Raspberries, sold frozen in one-kilogram bags, UPC 6 95058 00205 4, lot number SY25314, and Alasko IQF Whole Raspberries, sold in five-kilogram cases containing five one-kilogram bags, UPC 1 069505 800205 1, lot number SY25314.

The recall was triggered by findings made during a CFIA investigation into a foodborne illness outbreak, Health Canada said in a Sept. 15 advisory. The agency said illnesses have been reported in connection with consumption of the recalled products.

The frozen raspberries were distributed in Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and Quebec.

Consumers are advised not to eat, serve, use, sell or distribute the recalled products. They should either throw them out or return them to the store where they were purchased.

The CFIA said its investigation is ongoing and could result in additional recalls.

Health Canada said people infected with norovirus typically develop gastroenteritis symptoms within 24 to 48 hours, although symptoms can appear as early as 12 hours after exposure. The illness often begins suddenly, and people can become reinfected even after recovering.

Common symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach cramps. Other symptoms can include a low-grade fever, headache, chills, muscle aches and fatigue.

Most people recover within several days without long-term health effects, Health Canada said.

Anyone who develops symptoms after consuming the recalled raspberries should contact their health-care provider, Health Canada said. Consumers should also check whether they have any of the recalled products at home.

The federal government estimates there are about 4 million cases of foodborne illness in Canada each year. Health Canada advises consumers to follow four basic food-safety practices: clean, separate, cook, and chill.