E. coli Outbreak: 5th Hospitalization Linked to Pillsbury Pizza Pops
Health (https://www.cbc.ca/news/health)
A fifth hospitalization has been reported in an E. coli outbreak linked to the recalled Pillsbury brand Pizza Pops, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. The federal agency confirms that 23 people across seven provinces fell ill with the bacterial infection after consuming or handling certain flavors of the frozen snack between early October and late November. The outbreak has now spread to Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency issued a recall on Sunday for several pepperoni and bacon Pizza Pops due to E. coli contamination under investigation. The affected products include Pizza Pops Pepperoni + Bacon, Pizza Pops Supremo Extreme Pepperoni + Bacon, and Pizza Pops FRANK's RedHot Pepperoni + Bacon, all with best-before dates in June 2026.
Professor Lawrence Goodridge, a food safety expert, explains that freezers prevent bacterial growth but do not eliminate the bacteria. This means that if cross-contamination occurred or sanitation failed during production, the freezer would preserve the bacteria. Additionally, microwaves, which are often used to reheat Pizza Pops, do not heat food evenly, leaving cold spots where E. coli can survive. This highlights the importance of proper food handling and cooking practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Symptoms of E. coli infection can range from mild to severe and include nausea, vomiting, headache, mild fever, severe stomach cramps, and watery or bloody diarrhea. Pregnant individuals, children under five, adults over 60, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe illness. Most people recover within a few days without treatment, but seeking medical attention is crucial for those experiencing severe symptoms.
This outbreak serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with foodborne pathogens and the importance of proper food handling and storage practices. Consumers are advised to check their freezers for recalled Pizza Pops and dispose of them safely. The Public Health Agency of Canada continues to investigate the source of the E. coli contamination to prevent further illnesses and ensure food safety standards are met.
