Karmactive Staff
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a recall for Aladdin Foods brand lean ground beef in Ontario due to potential E. coli O103 contamination. The recall, triggered by test results on April 3, 2025, specifically targets products sold at Aladdin’s Food located at 9A-611 Wonderland Rd. N, London, Ontario.
The affected products are marked with “BEST BEFORE FE.28.25” and “PACKED ON: FE.24.25” labels. While no illnesses have been reported so far, the CFIA is conducting a detailed food safety investigation that may lead to additional product recalls.
Health Risks of E. coli O103
E. coli O103 belongs to a group called Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), which can cause serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses. Unlike some better-known strains, E. coli O103 can be particularly dangerous because even small amounts of the bacteria can cause severe sickness.
Symptoms of E. coli O103 infection include:
- Severe stomach cramps
- Diarrhea (which may become bloody)
- Vomiting
- Fever in some cases
In severe cases, E. coli O103 infection can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious kidney condition that may require blood transfusions and kidney dialysis. This complication is more common in children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
The CFIA warning states: “Food contaminated with E. coli O103 may not look or smell spoiled but can still make you sick.” This invisible threat is why food recalls and proper handling procedures are so important for public safety.
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Consumer Action Steps
The CFIA advises consumers who have purchased the recalled ground beef to:
- Not consume the product
- Throw it away or return it to the place of purchase
- Contact their healthcare provider if they think they became sick from consuming the recalled product
For those who have already prepared or frozen the product, thorough cleaning of all surfaces, utensils, and containers that came in contact with the raw meat is essential to prevent cross-contamination.
Preventing E. coli Infection
Food safety experts recommend these measures when handling any ground beef:
- Cook ground beef thoroughly to an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F)
- Use a food thermometer to verify cooking temperature
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling raw meat
- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat
- Clean all surfaces that contact raw meat with hot, soapy water
Ground beef requires special attention because the grinding process can spread bacteria throughout the meat. Unlike steaks where bacteria typically remain on the surface, in ground beef the bacteria can be mixed throughout the entire product, making thorough cooking essential.
Industry Standards and Oversight
The CFIA is verifying that industry partners are removing all recalled products from the marketplace. This recall highlights the importance of regular testing and inspection protocols in the meat processing industry.
The food safety investigation process in Canada helps identify and address contamination issues. Despite safety measures in place, contamination can still occur at different points in the food supply chain.
The CFIA offers options for consumers to receive notifications about food recalls via email and social media. Consumers can report food safety concerns through the CFIA website or by calling 1-800-442-2342.
For the latest information on this recall and other food safety alerts, visit the CFIA website or call their public inquiry line.
Frequently Asked Questions
The recall affects Aladdin Foods brand lean ground beef with “BEST BEFORE FE.28.25” and “PACKED ON: FE.24.25” labels. The affected products were sold at Aladdin’s Food located at 9A-611 Wonderland Rd. N, London, Ontario. The products have variable sizes and do not have a UPC code.
E. coli O103 is a serious bacterial strain that can cause severe illness. Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea (which may be bloody), vomiting, and sometimes fever. In severe cases, it can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious kidney condition that may require blood transfusions and kidney dialysis. This can be life-threatening, especially for children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
If you purchased the recalled Aladdin Foods brand lean ground beef, do not consume it. Either throw it away or return it to the place of purchase. If you’ve already eaten the product and experience symptoms like severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, or vomiting, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Also, thoroughly clean any surfaces, utensils, or containers that came in contact with the raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.
Unfortunately, you cannot tell if ground beef is contaminated with E. coli O103 by looking at it, smelling it, or tasting it. E. coli bacteria are invisible to the naked eye and contaminated food may look and smell completely normal. This is why following recall notices and cooking ground beef thoroughly to an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F) is so important for your safety.
According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), there have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of the recalled Aladdin Foods lean ground beef products so far. However, the recall was triggered by test results showing E. coli O103 contamination, which prompted the CFIA to take preventative action to protect public health.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) offers options for consumers to receive notifications about food recalls via email and social media. You can sign up for these notifications on the CFIA website. Additionally, you can report any food safety concerns through the CFIA website or by calling 1-800-442-2342. Regular checking of the CFIA website for updates is also recommended, especially if you’re concerned about recently purchased food products.
