On 26 August 2025, several pistachio-containing products sold in Ontario and online were recalled due to the possible presence of Salmonella. The recall covers a wide range of items, including petit four cookies, baklava, cheesecakes, and assorted pistachio chocolates sold at La Brioche (Ottawa) and Pistachio Choco outlets (Bank Street and Rideau Street, Ottawa). This action is linked to an ongoing foodborne illness outbreak investigation.
Details of the Recall:
Products affected: Petit Four Cookies, Baklava (including cream-filled), Strawberry Cheesecake, Knafeh Dubai Chocolate Bars, Dubai Chocolate varieties (Leaves, Cup, Heart, Log), Arabesque Pistachio & Vanilla Ganache, Kunafa Bites
Sales locations:
La Brioche, 866 Bank St., Ottawa, ON (June 12–July 15, 2025)
Pistachio Choco, 1666 Bank St. and 50 Rideau St., Unit #306, Ottawa, ON (April 23–May 23, 2025)
Distribution: Ontario and online sales
Reason: Risk of Salmonella contamination
Health Risk:
Salmonella is a bacterial pathogen that can cause gastrointestinal illness with symptoms including diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and headache. While healthy adults typically recover within a week, the infection can be serious or even fatal for young children, elderly people, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Severe cases may involve bloodstream infections leading to hospitalization. Long-term complications can include reactive arthritis, which may persist for months or years. Importantly, contaminated food often shows no signs of spoilage, making detection by taste or smell impossible.
Consumer Advice:
This recall is precautionary but essential to limit further spread of illness linked to the ongoing outbreak. Authorities are continuing investigations to trace the source of contamination and prevent recurrence.