August 20, 2008 - The Thunder Bay District Health Unit is advising residents of a food recall issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) of certain ready-to-eat deli meats produced by Maple Leaf Consumer Foods.

Maple Leaf and the CFIA are warning the public not to serve or eat any of the 23 products involved in the recall as they may be contaminated with the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes.   

The potentially contaminated products were distributed to nursing homes, hospitals and restaurants and may also be sold at retail and deli counters. The recalled products carry an establishment number of 97B and have best before dates ranging from September 30, 2008 to January 1, 2009. 

By consuming food contaminated with listeria, individuals may develop a foodborne illness called listeriosis. Symptoms could include high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea. Those at highest risk include pregnant women, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.  Pregnant women may only experience flu-like symptoms, however, contracting the illness could lead to complications including premature delivery, newborn infections or stillbirth.

For more information on the recall, including a detailed list of the products affected, please visit the CFIA at www.inspection.gc.ca or call 1-800-442-2342.  Maple Leaf Consumer Foods can be contacted by calling 1-800-568-5801.

end