The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) imposed a temporary ban on Iranian pistachios and pistachio products on Saturday, following a Salmonella outbreak that has affected over 100 people nationwide. The restriction is part of an ongoing investigation into the contaminated nuts and associated items following the surge in illnesses across Canada.
The agency stated that all importers of pistachios and products containing pistachios must provide proof that the goods are not sourced from Iran to be allowed into the country.
“Shipments will be subjected to a hold and test for Salmonella or refused entry if importers do not provide this proof. These measures will remain in place while the CFIA analyzes information from the food safety investigation, ongoing surveillance, and inspections of importers,” CFIA said in a statement.
Since July, the agency has issued recalls for numerous pistachio products as part of its investigation into a Salmonella outbreak. The recalled items, suspected of salmonella contamination, include specific brands of pistachio kernels, baklava, ice cream, and chocolate.
“If all federal requirements are not met, importers could face enforcement actions, such as administrative monetary penalties, license suspension or cancellation, or prosecution,” CFIA added.
The agency stated that the measure was taken as a precaution to safeguard Canadians from potential Salmonella infection. The agency affirmed that the restrictions will stay in effect until food safety assessments are concluded, and violators will face penalties including fines, license suspensions, or legal action.
Iranian pistachios have previously been subject to import bans. In the past year, the European Union suspended shipments after finding elevated levels of aflatoxin, a harmful byproduct of mold. In recent years, other Iranian agricultural products, such as peppers, kiwis, and potatoes, have also been rejected by countries like Russia, India, and Pakistan due to contamination issues.
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