Canada Recalls Frozen Raspberries and Raspberry Products Over Norovirus Linked to Outbreak Investigation

On September 29, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) published a recall alert for frozen raspberries and products containing them, due to possible contamination with norovirus. The recall affects frozen raspberries, a berry mix, a smoothie mix and a raspberry protein powder, all sold under a supermarket chain's own brand in six stores in Toronto, York and Aurora, Ontario, between July 29 and September 15, 2026.

The CFIA explained that the recall stemmed from findings from its own investigation of a foodborne illness outbreak, and that it follows a previous recall of another brand of frozen raspberries for norovirus. So far there are no illnesses reported from the consumption of these specific products, but the agency is keeping the safety investigation open, which could lead to new recalls, and verifying that the products are removed from stores. Consumers are asked not to consume, serve or sell them, and throw them away or return them to the point of purchase.

Norovirus causes diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal cramps within 12 to 48 hours after exposure, and most people recover within a few days. Frozen red berries are a common vehicle because they are harvested by hand, consumed without cooking, and freezing preserves the virus; that is why traceability to the supplier and the batch of origin is decisive to contain an outbreak.

For berry importers and processors, the case is a reminder that controls must include verification of suppliers, hygiene records of harvesters and the management of washing water. Norovirus is detected with viral RNA molecular techniques different from those used for bacteria, so these programs are complemented with the usual microbiological surveillance of hygiene and plant indicators.