The Public Health Agency of Canada reports its investigation into a salmonella outbreak linked to pistachios is still active one year since recording the first infection.
In an update April 13, the agency said people are still getting sick with illnesses reported as recently as last month.
The public health office reports that 26 people have been hospitalized, and the number of illnesses is up to 189 since March 2025.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has published dozens of product recalls for various brands of pistachios and pistachio-containing products. The recalls span from Dubai chocolate and pistachio cranberry chocolate chunk biscotti to trail mixes and raw kernels.
Canadians are told not to eat pistachios imported from Iran, and the CFIA implemented a ban on imports from the country in September 2025, stating measures would remain in place as the investigation continues.
Illnesses have been reported in six provinces, including 88 in Quebec and 74 in Ontario, along with British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and New Brunswick.
About Salmonella infections
Food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria does not usually look, smell, or taste spoiled. Anyone can become sick with a Salmonella infection. Infants, children, seniors, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness because their immune systems are fragile.
Anyone who has eaten any pistachios or products containing them and developed symptoms of Salmonella infection should medical attention. Sick people should tell their doctors about the possible exposure to Salmonella bacteria because special tests are necessary to diagnose salmonellosis. Salmonella infection symptoms can mimic other illnesses, frequently leading to misdiagnosis.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever within 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. Otherwise, healthy adults are usually sick for four to seven days. In some cases, however, diarrhea may be so severe that patients require hospitalization.
Older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, such as cancer patients, are more likely to develop a severe illness and serious, sometimes life-threatening conditions.
Some people get infected without getting sick or showing any symptoms. However, they may still spread the infections to others.
