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The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), along with provincial public health partners, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Health Canada continue to investigate an outbreak of Escherichia coli O157 that is linked to romaine lettuce. Since the most recent outbreak update on December 14 was issued, 10 additional cases have been added to this outbreak bringing the total case count to 40.

Illnesses linked to romaine lettuce continue to be reported to PHAC, these illnesses indicate that contaminated romaine lettuce may still be on the market (including in restaurants, grocery stores and any establishments that serve food). There appears to be an ongoing risk of E. Coli infections associated with the consumption of romaine lettuce and individuals in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador are advised to consider consuming other types of lettuce, instead of romaine lettuce, until more is known about the outbreak and the cause of contamination. At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that provinces in western Canada are affected by this outbreak.

To date, no product recalls have been initiated nor have the illnesses been traced back to a supplier, brand or region. Until more information is made available, Markon cannot issue recommendations regarding romaine product currently in the market. The CFIA is working with public health officials to determine the source of the romaine lettuce. This is an active and ongoing outbreak investigation.

Markon is closely following this outbreak investigation and will continue to update members when more information becomes available.

What we know:

• PHAC is advising individuals in Eastern Canada to consider consuming other types of lettuce, instead of romaine lettuce
• To date, 40 people from 5 provinces Ontario (8), Quebec (13), New Brunswick (5), Nova Scotia (1), and Newfoundland and Labrador (13) have been infected with the outbreak strain of E. Coli O157
  • 16 of the ill persons have been hospitalized
  • One death has been reported 
• Illnesses occurred in November and December 2017 
• Individuals who became ill are between the ages of 4 and 85 
• The majority of the cases (73%) are female
• Individuals reported eating romaine lettuce at home, as well as in prepared salads purchased at grocery stores, restaurants and fast food chains.

Click here to view is the PHAC public notice.

For more information about E. Coli and details on the ongoing outbreak and epidemiological information, please refer to the PHAC website:

Markon is closely following this outbreak investigation and will continue to update members when more information becomes available.

Please do not hesitate to let us know if you have any questions.

Lianna Kelly

Food Safety Director