On September 9th, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) recalled a variety of baklava pastries made with pistachios, because they could be contaminated with salmonella. It took until August 8, 2025, for officials to announce a recall. This action is part of the ongoing investigation into a multicounty foodborne illness outbreak linked to contaminated pistachios. Over the last two weeks, federal and state health officials have been watching the outbreak associated with pistachios. In response, several recalls have been announced.
According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, 52 people became sick after eating contaminated pistachios. They further associated the illnesses with pastries and other baked items. Alarmingly, nine of these cases required hospitalization, which raises major alarms on the safety of these products. The majority of contaminated equipment was sold at a popular Montreal bakery. Customers might have purchased the baklava laced with the deadly bacteria from June 25 until July 26.
Details of the Recall
The CFIA’s investigation has revealed that the baklava pastries, which prominently featured pistachios, are a key focus in the salmonella outbreak. The presence of this contamination in these baked goods has led to life-threatening potential outcomes for consumers. Public health officials are working to determine the source of the contamination. They speak to the value of transparency in communicating with the public about food safety.
If you ate any foods that may have contained pistachios from the implicated bakery, monitor your health closely. Get medical care as soon as possible if you have symptoms of foodborne illness. Infected persons may develop symptoms including fever, abdominal cramping, and diarrhea. These usually form 12-72 hours after consuming contaminated food.
Ongoing Investigation
The CFIA continues to investigate the pistachio outbreak. They are continuing to work hand-in-hand with our public health officials to determine exactly what is causing this contamination. The agency encourages consumers to check back for more information as it becomes available on this developing story. Consumers must be on the lookout for more recalls as investigations proceed.
In Ontario, where the majority of long-coveted cases have surfaced, public health officials are keeping a close eye on the situation. In the meantime, they are recommending that residents avoid pistachio products until more is known about their safety.
