CFIA warns of possible E. coli contamination in Germina “Brocoli calabrese” seeds sold online in Ontario and Quebec

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued a food recall warning on May 6 for Germina brand “Brocoli calabrese” seeds sold online in Ontario and Quebec because of possible contamination with pathogenic E. coli.

The notice applies to consumers who may have bought the seeds online, including people who purchased them in bulk. The CFIA listed the affected lot number and package sizes so buyers can check what they have.

According to the CFIA, the recall covers Germina “Brocoli calabrese” seeds with LOT # BRR18 in these sizes:

• 60 g (UPC 6 28176 98502 2)
• 120 g (UPC 6 28176 98503 9)
• 500 g (UPC: None)
• 1 kg (UPC: None)
• Variable (5 kg to 20 kg) (UPC: None)

The CFIA advises consumers not to consume, serve, use, sell, or distribute the recalled products. The agency said recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the location where they were purchased.

Food contaminated with pathogenic E. coli may not look or smell spoiled but can still cause illness. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, mild to severe abdominal cramps and watery to bloody diarrhea. In severe cases of illness, some people may have seizures or strokes. The CFIA said severe cases can also require blood transfusions and kidney dialysis, or result in permanent kidney damage. The agency said people may die in severe cases.

The CFIA said the recall was triggered by a recall in another country. The agency said there have been no reported illnesses associated with consumption of these products.

The CFIA said it is conducting a food safety investigation that may lead to the recall of other products. The agency also said it is verifying that industry is removing the recalled products from the marketplace.

The recall is listed as Class 1, identification number RA-82039.