CFIA and Siena Foods Recall Hams Due to Listeria Concerns

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Canadian consumers suspicious of meat post-listeria

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The CFIA and Siena Foods Ltd. are conducting a recall of three of their pork products due to concerns about Listeria monocytogene contamination.  These ham products were prepared in Ontario and may be distributed across Canada.

Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes will not appear to be spoiled but the consequenses of consuming the food my be deadly.  An estimated 25% of people who develop Listeriosis will die from the bacterium.

Who's Most at Risk for Listeriosis Complications?                           
Most at risk are pregnant women and their unborn babies.  Others at high risk are the very young and adults with compromised immune systems.

Natural Sources of Listeria Bacteria
Birds, domestic and wild mammals, fish, crustaceans, insects

Foods to Be Avoided While Pregnant

• soft cheeses, whether pasturized or not.  Cross-contamination can easily occur.
• deli meats that are meant to be eaten without re-heating
• any meats that are purchased pre-cooked and not re-heated
• because cross-contamination can occur, it is best to avoid any prepared foods from the market.  This includes prepared salads.

Siena Brand Ham Products Under Recall
1.  Siena Brand Proscuitto Cotto Cooked Ham - sold in large packages to retail outlets for slicing
2.  Siena Brand Coppa - specialty ham
3.  Siena Brand Proscuittini

If you have any of these products, do not eat them.  Either throw them away or return them to the store where you purchased them.