THE GOVERNMENT DOESN’T WANT TO ALARM YOU, BUT …

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency issued a warning Wednesday to consumers about the possible presence of venomous creepy-crawlies in produce. In particular, the agency raised a red flag concerning three multi-legged horrors.

1 BLACK WIDOW SPIDERS (Latrodectus mactans) Where are they hiding?

In imported table grapes. Yes, the grapes are inspected, but the spiders may blend in with vines and escape detection.

What do they look like?

Black widows can be identified by two distinctive reddish or yellowish triangles on the abdomen.

What’s the big deal?

Their venom is poisonous and should be treated promptly. In particular, children and adults who aren’t in good health should beware.

2 IRON CROSS BLISTER BEETLES (Tegrodera aloga) Where are they hiding?

The food inspection agency has received isolated reports of single blister beetles found in imported leafy vegetables from the southern U.S.

What do they look like?

They have a bright red head and bright yellow markings on the wings, which, in theory, should make them stand out against green vegetables.

What’s the big deal?

If the terrifying name didn’t already give it away, blister beetles release a chemical, cantharidin, in self-defence or if crushed during food handling. Cantharidin causes burning blisters at the point of contact.

3 SCORPIONS (Scorpiones) Where are they hiding?

Amongst bananas and berries.

What do they look like?

They can be identified by their pincers, segmented body and long, segmented tail. Typically, the last segment at the tip of a scorpion’s tail is the largest and delivers a strong sting.

What’s the big deal?

All species of scorpion are venomous. The sting can cause local pain, redness, tingling or numbness, burning and swelling.

“If any insects, spiders or scorpions are found, the entire product, including the pest, should be bagged and submitted to the local Canadian Food Inspection Agency area office immediately.”