A Series of Food Recalls Affect Quebec: Details and Implications

Between June and July 2026, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued several food recalls affecting Quebec and, in some cases, other regions of Canada. The recalls were prompted by issues including undeclared allergens, bacterial contamination, spoilage, labelling errors, and physical hazards. The scope of products ranges from confections and dairy to seafood and condiments, with recalls classified according to risk severity.

On July 4, the CFIA initiated a national Class 1 recall for Gummy Gainz protein candy due to undeclared milk in the product. Seventeen variants, all sold online, were affected. These include 49g bags in fruit salad, blue raspberry, Fuzzy Peach, green apple, and sour watermelon flavours, as well as six- and twelve-count boxes in the same flavours, and a 9.8g 'Original Protein Candy Sample.' Only packages without milk listed on the label are implicated, so consumers are advised to check the full label for this information. The recall followed a consumer complaint and an allergic reaction has already been reported. The CFIA classifies Class 1 as the highest risk, applicable where consumption could result in serious health consequences or death for those allergic or intolerant to milk. The agency advises consumers not to consume affected products and to dispose of or return them.

On June 30, the CFIA recalled certain Five Star Shellfish oysters over possible Salmonella contamination. This recall affects oysters sold in Quebec, Ontario, and Nova Scotia, specifically the Malpeque (available in 25-count, 100-count, and 2.5-lb formats), as well as Conway Pearls, Blackberry, and Gooseberry (all in 100-count formats) harvested on June 22 in Prince Edward Island. These products may not have UPC codes, so consumers are instructed to check harvest and shipping dates. No illnesses have been reported as of the recall announcement. The agency recommends not consuming the oysters and disposing of or returning them.

Also on June 30, the CFIA recalled pure maple syrup from two brands, 9227-8712 Québec Inc. and L'Érabeille, over spoilage and container defects. Both brands’ 540 ml sizes are affected, regardless of lot code or date. This recall is classified as Class 3, indicating a lower health risk, but the syrup should not be consumed, sold, or distributed.

Salem Foods products were recalled nationally on June 26 after wheat, sesame, and mustard were found in certain items without being declared on the label. The Class 1 recall covers three products: Spice Biscuits (200g), ground cardamom (180g), and spearmint (120g). Any lot missing these allergens on the label is included. The CFIA notes that Salem Foods has previously faced recalls for similar labelling issues. There have been no reported allergic reactions in connection with this recall.

The Ola-Ola "Authentic Pounded Yam (Iyan) IYANINSTANT" in the 1.815 kg size, sold online nationwide, was subject to a Class 1 recall on June 26 due to undeclared milk. The affected product has UPC 6 50655 49687 3 and all lot codes are impacted. This recall resulted from a consumer complaint, but no adverse reactions had been reported at the time of recall.

Amy's organic lentil soup (low sodium, 398 ml) was recalled nationally due to spoilage and container defects. The recall, classified as Class 3, affects only the lot with Best Before 04/2027, lot 60D0924, UPC 0 42272 90583 6. The recall does not relate to allergens or bacteria, but to packaging concerns. The CFIA advises not to consume the product.

Izem Energy carbonated energy drink (25 cl, UPC 6 130093 063720), sold exclusively in Quebec, was recalled due to labelling issues. Announced to the public on June 25, the recall was initiated earlier by AlmoCan Méditerranéen Inc. The recall covers all lots of the specified format. The agency recommends the product not be sold or consumed.

Wu Xian Zhai soy snacks in spicy chicken, barbecue, and soy sauce flavours (all 108g) were recalled on June 19 after CFIA testing found undeclared allergens. The spicy chicken and barbecue versions contain undeclared wheat and eggs, while the soy sauce version contains undeclared eggs. The UPCs are 6 924878 910022 (spicy chicken), 6 924878 910015 (barbecue), and 6 924878 900955 (soy sauce). The recall is Class 1, but no adverse reactions have been documented so far.

A dosage issue led Lactalis Canada to recall its Lactantia UltraPūr lactose-free 2% milk on June 8. The product contained excessive amounts of added vitamin A and D. The affected cartons, sold at Costco and Costco Business Centre between May and June 2026 under item number 1987085, feature the Best Before date "JN 22" and UPC 0 68200 14854 0. This is a Class 2 recall, signifying a moderate level of risk. The CFIA advises consumers not to drink the product and to return it for a refund, and to consult a physician if health concerns arise after consumption. No reactions have been reported as of the recall date.

Allo Simonne milk chocolate spread (220g, code 4-281-25 MA 4/27, UPC 6 28347 31004 2) was recalled after the company discovered possible glass fragments. The recall, which began on June 3 and was made public on June 9, affects jars sold online and in Quebec, Ontario, New Brunswick, and British Columbia. This is a Class 2 recall, and the CFIA notes that glass in food may cause injury. Consumers are advised not to eat the product.

The CFIA classifies recalls into three levels: Class 1 (serious health risk), Class 2 (moderate risk), and Class 3 (low risk). Many of the recent recalls in Quebec are Class 1, involving undeclared allergens such as milk, wheat, sesame, mustard, and eggs, which pose significant risks to individuals with allergies or intolerances. Class 2 recalls, such as those involving physical hazards or excessive vitamin content, carry moderate risk, while Class 3 recalls are typically related to spoilage or minor labelling errors.

Consumers are encouraged by the CFIA to check the lot codes, UPCs, and labelling information for products in their homes against recall notices. The agency recommends discarding or returning recalled products and consulting a healthcare professional if a recalled product has been consumed and adverse symptoms occur.

These recalls have implications for food manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, as they highlight the importance of accurate labelling, quality control, and traceability within the supply chain. For consumers, the recalls underscore the necessity of vigilance regarding product labelling and the potential health risks associated with undeclared allergens, contamination, and other hazards. The CFIA continues to monitor and enforce food safety standards, responding to consumer complaints, company reports, and its own testing to identify and mitigate risks. The agency’s actions are part of ongoing efforts to ensure public health and maintain confidence in the Canadian food system.