In a press release issued late yesterday, the Mississauga-based grocer said it is taking two of its Deli Lunch Box Wraps off the market immediately, as a result of the possibility of contamination by listeria.
The outbreak of the foodborne illness, listeriosis, which is caused by the bacteria, is linked to 15 deaths in five provinces, including one in Peel Region.
Yesterday Sobeys, which also operates IGA and Foodland stores, recalled six pre-packaged cooked ham and salami products. The company later announced that both its Deli Lunch Box Wrap on white, and on whole wheat, were also being removed from circulation.
A joint press release from Sobeys and the CFIA stated that, "this recall is being initiated as these sandwiches contain some of the ready-to-eat deli meat products recalled by Maple Leaf Consumer Foods. There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these sandwiches."
Food contaminated with listeria may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with this bacteria may cause listeriosis, a foodborne illness. Listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea. Pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are especially at risk.
jstewart@mississauga.net
