A recall of specific Pizza Pops products that was initiated prior to the holiday season has now been expanded. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has broadened the recall to include various Pizza Pops varieties such as three-cheese, pepperoni, pepperoni and bacon, deluxe, and three-meat in different packaging due to potential E. coli O26 contamination. A comprehensive list of the impacted products can be found on the agency’s official website.
A previous recall of certain Pizza Pops items on December 21 was also related to potential E. coli contamination. The Public Health Agency of Canada reported last month that multiple individuals across seven provinces were hospitalized as a result of the outbreak.
According to the CFIA, food tainted with E. coli O26 may not exhibit any visual or olfactory signs of spoilage but can still cause illness. Consumers are advised to discard the recalled products or return them to the place of purchase. General Mills, the manufacturer of Pizza Pops, emphasized that food safety is their utmost priority and they are collaborating with retailers to withdraw potentially affected items.
The company’s statement urges consumers to inspect their freezers and dispose of any products impacted by the recall. Symptoms of E. coli infection include nausea, vomiting, headache, mild fever, severe stomach cramps, and watery or bloody diarrhea. While most individuals recover without medical intervention within a few days, pregnant women, children under five, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of severe illness.