One case of salmonella linked to pistachio recall reported in SEHU region

Earlier this summer, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) published a food recall notification for Habibi brand Pistachio Kernel due to salmonella, which has since been expanded to include various brands of pistachios and pistachio-containing products, including a number of the viral confections known as “Dubai chocolate.”

Throughout July and August 2025, multiple products have been recalled, and the CFIA is working closely with industry to verify that recalled products have been effectively removed from the marketplace, according to the federal government. The Public Health Agency of Canada is leading the investigation into the outbreak.

According to the federal government, food contaminated with salmonella may not look or smell spoiled, but can still make you sick. Those who contract the infection may experience sudden headache, chills, fever, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and/or stomach cramps. Anyone who believes they have become ill after consuming one of the recalled products is advised to contact their physician.

According to the South East Health Unit (SEHU), one case of salmonella within its region has been linked to the national outbreak. The case was in Hastings-Prince Edward and was reported in March 2025, the SEHU stated, in response to Kingstonist’s inquiries.

“We followed up on the positive lab report by conducting a DOPHS investigation (Diseases of Public Health Significance) as per provincial protocols. We entered the information into the provincial diseases database and the case was linked to the outbreak,” the local health unit stated.

As of the last update on Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, the Public Health Agency of Canada reported 62 cases of the illness related to the outbreak, a majority of which (45) were in Quebec. At that time, there were 11 cases in Ontario, one in Manitoba, and five in British Columbia. A total of 10 people were hospitalized as a result, according to Public Health data.

The CFIA is encouraging all consumers, no matter where they live, to check the recall notice carefully and compare the product details to what they have at home.

“Consumers can periodically check to see if they have recalled products by looking for the specific brand, product name and size, UPC and codes in the recall notification. If the product does not match what is presented on the product table, the product is not part of the recall,” CFIA stated.

“Do not consume recalled products. Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the place of purchase. Consumers who are unsure if they have purchased the recalled products are advised to contact their retailer.”

Those who think they became ill after consuming a recalled product are asked to contact their healthcare provider. Food contaminated with Salmonella may not look or smell spoiled but can still make you sick, CFIA stated.

For the latest information on this recall, refer to the Public Health Notice on this active outbreak.