Canada closes investigation into salmonella from red onions
The Public Health Agency of Canada has closed its investigation into a Salmonella Newport outbreak that was traced to red onions from Thomson International Inc., Bakersfield, Calif.
The Canadian agency reported 515 people became ill from mid-June to late August in the outbreak. The outbreak appears to be over, according to an Oct. 2 notice from the agency. Although three people who were ill died, salmonella did not contribute to their deaths, according to the notice.
In Canada, people reported becoming ill from eating red onions from grocery stores, restaurants and residential care settings.
In the U.S., there are 1,012 cases, although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention hasn’t updated the number since Aug. 31. The Food and Drug Administration in early October also was investigating salmonella outbreaks traced to peaches, dried wood ear mushrooms, and pet bearded dragons and hedgehogs.
Thomson International on Aug. 1 recalled red, white, yellow and sweet onions packed under numerous brands and in assorted packaging. Although red onions were the only variety directly linked to the illnesses, the company recalled all onions packed since May due to cross-contamination concerns.
In the U.S., retailers including Food Lion, Giant Eagle, Kroger, Ralph’s, Trader Joe’s and Walmart issued recalls, as did meal kit company HelloFresh.
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