2008-08-27 CANTEST comments on Listeria outbreak in Canada

BURNABY, BC - Given the increasing interest and concern regarding Listeria in Canadian meat products, we have elected to put forth the following information which we hope will clarify our corporate position and serve as a resource to those looking for information. 

First and foremost, this has been an unusual and tragic event.  Although we are not yet privy to all the facts of this particular case, our sympathies are with the families of those who have been impacted by Listeriosis.

Secondly, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued a public warning about meat products which may contain Listeria on August 19th and expanded this warning on August 24th.  The products in question include not only those marketed under the Maple Leaf banner, but any products produced at establishment (Est.) 97B which will be clearly identified on the package.  If there is any doubt, it is recommended that you dispose of the product. 

Thirdly, CANTEST is not currently accredited to conduct Listeria testing, and consequently, the service is not being offered at our facility.  Accreditation represents independent, formal recognition of a laboratory’s ability to perform specific tests.  The process typically involves a quality management and technical competence audit against ISO 17025 which is the industry standard.  CANTEST is scheduled to undergo a Standards Council of Canada (SCC) audit within 60 days at which our service offering – including that related to Listeria – will change.  At present, however, please check the SCC web site at: http://palcan.scc.ca/SpecsSearch/SpecsSearchAction.do for an alternate, suitable laboratory. 

Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us directly at 604 734 7276 or send an email to denns@cantest.com.

Background:

Listeria is the genus name of a group of bacteria, some of which are relatively harmless to humans.  The commonly referred to species described with genus title “Listeria” is Listeria monocytogenes and this species is indeed harmful to humans.  Listeria monocytogenes is responsible for the bacterial infection Listeriosis which is fatal in 20-30% of cases.  For more information please check the Health Canada web site at: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/food-aliment/listeria-eng.php .