Canada Recalls Pistachios After Salmonella Outbreak: 52 Sick, 9 Hospitalized
The Public Health Agency of Canada has issued a warning after confirming 52 salmonella cases across four provinces. Investigators have linked the outbreak to pistachios and pistachio-containing products. As of August 5, the illness has hospitalized nine people. Authorities have urgently recalled several affected brands.
Affected Provinces and Brands
The reported salmonella cases occurred between March and mid-July and are spread across:
- Quebec: 39 cases
- Ontario: 9 cases
- British Columbia: 3 case
- Manitoba: 1 case
The affected products were sold under the following brand names:
- Habibi
- Al Mokhtar Food Centre
- Dubai
Distributors mainly sent products to Ontario and Quebec, but they also sold Dubai brand pistachio and knafeh milk chocolate bars online across Canada.
Contamination and Recall Details
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) confirmed that Habibi brand pistachio samples tested positive for salmonella. The agency also warned that cafés, bakeries, and other food spots might have used the recalled pistachios in baked goods or sold them directly.
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Canadians are urged to:
- Check product names, sizes, and UPCs listed in official recall notices
- Throw out or return recalled products to the point of purchase
- Avoid consuming or serving any of the identified items
- Contact stores or suppliers if unsure about product safety
Health officials advise even those without symptoms to avoid preparing food for others if they may have been exposed to the bacteria.
What to Know About Salmonella
Salmonellosis is a foodborne illness caused by the salmonella bacteria. Symptoms typically appear six to 72 hours after exposure and may include:
- Fever and chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea and stomach cramps
- Headaches
Most healthy individuals recover within a week without medical treatment. However, young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe complications.
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In some cases, dehydration or the risk of the infection spreading to other organs requires hospitalization.
Why This Matters
The Dubai chocolate bar, known for its pistachio filling and viral social media fame, is among the recalled products. Its popularity has raised concern that many consumers may have unknowingly purchased or consumed it.
PHAC says the number of lab-confirmed cases likely underrepresents the total number of illnesses, as many people with mild symptoms may not seek medical care.
What You Should Do
If you have recently consumed any of the recalled pistachio products—or if you serve food in a retail or restaurant setting—stop using them immediately. For more information, consult the PHAC or CFIA websites for detailed product listings and updates on the ongoing investigation.
Have you checked your pantry for any of the recalled pistachio products? Let us know your thoughts or concerns in the comments.
More…
- https://www.ctvnews.ca/toronto/article/9-in-hospital-with-salmonella-after-consuming-pistachios-and-pistachio-containing-products-public-health-agency-of-canada
- https://www.cp24.com/news/canada/2025/08/05/recall-dubai-brand-milk-chocolate-may-contain-salmonella
- https://vancouver.citynews.ca/video/2025/08/06/dubai-brand-chocolate-recalled-over-salmonella-outbreak
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