Based on coverage from CTV and DailyHive.
Salami enthusiasts across Canada can finally exhale, as the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has declared the end of a salmonella outbreak linked to various salami and cacciatore products. This outbreak, which unfurled its unwelcome presence from mid-April to early August 2025, affected 90 individuals across four provinces. Alberta bore the brunt with 69 cases, while Ontario reported 19, and Manitoba and British Columbia each had one case. Thankfully, no fatalities were reported, though 10 people required hospitalization.
The outbreak's source was traced back to salami products that found their way into prepared sandwiches and deli counters. In response, PHAC issued a series of recalls between June and August, targeting a wide array of brands. The list of recalled products reads like a who's who of the deli world, including names like Bona, Cosmo’s Smoked Meats, and Vince’s Cured Meats Corp., among others. These products had been distributed far and wide, reaching grocery stores, specialty markets, restaurants, cafés, delis, and butcher shops.
Salmonella, a notorious foodborne bacterial illness, can be a stealthy adversary. It doesn't discriminate, affecting anyone who consumes contaminated food. What's more, those infected can spread the bacteria to others even if they're symptom-free. PHAC's advice to Canadians was clear: check your pantry and fridge for the recalled products, and if you find any, either dispose of them or return them to the point of purchase. The agency also cautioned against cooking for others if you're battling a salmonella infection or any gastrointestinal illness.
The outbreak's resolution is a testament to the vigilance of health authorities and the importance of food safety protocols. It's a reminder that while we might take our deli meats for granted, there's a complex web of safety checks and balances ensuring our food is safe to eat. For those who might have indulged in a salami sandwich during the outbreak period, it's a good idea to keep an eye out for symptoms like fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, and to contact a healthcare provider if they arise.
The saga of the salami outbreak underscores the interconnectedness of our food systems and the ripple effects a single contaminated product can have. It's a story of caution, but also one of relief now that the outbreak is over. So, as we return to our charcuterie boards and deli counters, let's do so with a newfound appreciation for the safety measures that protect us—and perhaps a little more scrutiny of the labels on our favourite meats.
