A nationwide recall has been issued for certain frozen shrimp products sold across Canada after tests revealed potential contamination that could pose serious health risks to consumers. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced the recall late yesterday, urging Canadians to check their freezers immediately.
The affected products, distributed by Maritime Seafood Suppliers, include several varieties of frozen raw and cooked shrimp sold between January and April 2024. Laboratory testing identified the presence of harmful bacteria, including Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause severe illness particularly in pregnant women, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
“We’re seeing an unusual level of contamination in this batch of imported seafood products,” said Dr. Eleanor Simmons, food safety expert at the University of Toronto. “The bacteria can survive freezing temperatures, making this recall particularly concerning as consumers might store these products for months.”
The CFIA reports that at least seven cases of illness have been potentially linked to consumption of the contaminated shrimp, with two individuals requiring hospitalization. Symptoms of Listeria infection can include fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, with symptoms potentially appearing up to 70 days after consumption.
Health Canada spokesperson Martin Chen told CO24 News that this recall reflects the agency’s “commitment to proactive consumer protection” and emphasized the importance of the public checking their freezers thoroughly.
The recall applies specifically to:
- Maritime Selection Raw Jumbo Shrimp (400g packages)
- Maritime Cooked Peeled Shrimp (340g packages)
- Maritime Premium Shrimp Rings (300g packages)
- Various bulk packages sold at major retailers nationwide
Retailers across Canada have been instructed to remove the products from shelves immediately. The CFIA is conducting a thorough investigation into the source of contamination, which preliminary findings suggest originated at a processing facility in Southeast Asia.
This recall highlights ongoing concerns about food safety in global supply chains. Industry analysts speaking to CO24 Business note that seafood imports face particular challenges in maintaining cold chain integrity during long-distance transportation.
“The complexity of modern food supply chains means contamination can occur at multiple points,” explained Dr. Simmons. “From harvest to processing to transportation, each step presents opportunities for bacterial growth if proper protocols aren’t followed rigorously.”
Consumers who have purchased the affected products are advised not to consume them and to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Those who have already consumed the products and are experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
This marks the third major seafood recall in Canada this year, raising questions about inspection protocols for imported seafood products. As our food system becomes increasingly globalized, how can consumers be confident that the products reaching their tables meet the safety standards they expect?
