A recent string of listeria-related recalls, from frozen waffles to plant-based milk, has raised concerns among Canadians about possible increased contamination. However, experts say there isn’t actually a rise in listeria cases — just more frequent testing and quicker responses from food companies.
TreeHouse Foods recently recalled several frozen waffles and pancakes from its Brantford, Ont., facility after routine testing detected listeria. This follows a high-profile plant-based milk recall earlier this year that led to 20 illnesses and three deaths, prompting many companies to ramp up their food safety efforts.
Listeria is a common bacteria that thrives in cold, damp conditions and can sometimes persist despite regular cleaning. According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), there have been nine listeria-related recalls so far this fiscal year, compared to 21 last year.
Experts agree that more recalls may simply reflect better detection and increased awareness, rather than a rise in contamination.
