Canada Mandates Testing of Iranian Pistachios Amid Salmonella Outbreak

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has mandated that all pistachios imported from Iran be tested for Salmonella. This decision comes in response to a nationwide outbreak linked to the consumption of pistachios and pistachio-containing products. As of November 2023, the Public Health Agency of Canada reported 155 confirmed Salmonella infections across the country, with patients ranging in age from 1 to 95 years. Notably, 24 individuals have required hospitalization due to the illness.

Rising Concerns Over Food Safety

As of December 1, 2023, the CFIA announced that the number of recalled pistachio products has risen to 133 due to contamination concerns. A comprehensive list of these recalled items is available on the CFIA’s food recall warning page. The agency had initially imposed a ban on the import of Iranian pistachios on September 27, 2023. Under the new regulations, all federally licensed importers and manufacturers must now hold and test any pistachios imported from Iran before they can be sold. This requirement also extends to products containing Iranian pistachios that are not already subject to recall.

The CFIA emphasized that these measures aim to protect Canadians from foodborne illness and to reassure consumers regarding the safety of their purchases. In a recent news release, the agency stated, “This will help protect Canadians from illness and provide consumers with greater reassurance that what they are buying is safe.”

Compliance and Enforcement Actions

The CFIA has indicated that these testing requirements form part of the conditions that businesses holding a Safe Food for Canadians license must adhere to. The measures will remain in effect throughout the ongoing food safety investigation. The agency will continue conducting inspections to verify compliance with these new regulations.

Importers and manufacturers who fail to meet federal requirements may face significant enforcement actions. These could include administrative monetary penalties, the suspension or cancellation of licenses, or even prosecution. The CFIA remains committed to ensuring the safety of the food supply in Canada as the investigation into the Salmonella outbreak continues.

As health officials work to contain the outbreak, consumers are urged to stay informed and to check for recalls on affected products to safeguard their health.