Flour recall warning expanded because of bacteria contamination

pulled from grocery store shelves after another case of infection was detected in Quebec.

The food recall warning issued on May 11 was updated this week to include additional products.

The latest food recall warnings were triggered by Canadian Food Inspection Agency findings during its food safety investigation into this outbreak.

As of Friday, Ardent Mills is recalling several varieties of Robin Hood and Creative Baker flour from stores across Canada with a wide range of product codes and package sizing. The flour might be contaminated with E. coli O121, which could pose a health risk.

The Canadian Public Health Agency of Canada is investigating the outbreak of E. coli infections linked with flour and various flour products, which has affected at least 30 people, including a new case of illness in Quebec.

“If you think you became sick from consuming a recalled product, call your doctor,” CFIA warns on its website.

Most people made ill by E. coli experience a few days of an upset stomach and then recover fully. But infections can sometimes be lifethreatening, especially to the very young and old, those who are pregnant, or have a weak immune system. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, mild to severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea.

Severe cases of illness can lead to seizures or strokes, blood transfusions and kidney dialysis, permanent kidney damage and sometimes death. Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the store where they were purchased.

Flour recalls have been happening in Canada since March, with multiple updates, including new brands and products since then.

The complete list of products and their codes is on the CFIA website, inspection.gc.ca.