CANADA: E coli warning sparks concern

A warning has been issued by Canada's federal health agency about a potentially harmful E coli bacteria being found in unpasteurised apple juice, cider or orange juice, creating the risk of serious illness in high risk groups such as the elderly, small children and those who suffer from weakened immune systems.As a result of the possible dangers, Health Canada has developed a voluntary labelling scheme which may be used to indicate that such products are unpasteurised. These juices and ciders are sold in plastic containers from roadside stands, country fairs, juice bars and at refrigerated grocery cases in supermarkets.

November 9, 2000

A warning has been issued by Canada’s federal health agency about a potentially harmful E coli bacteria being found in unpasteurised apple juice, cider or orange juice, creating the risk of serious illness in high risk groups such as the elderly, small children and those who suffer from weakened immune systems.

As a result of the possible dangers, Health Canada has developed a voluntary labelling scheme which may be used to indicate that such products are unpasteurised. These juices and ciders are sold in plastic containers from roadside stands, country fairs, juice bars and at refrigerated grocery cases in supermarkets.