Outbreak Overview
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is investigating a multi-province outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to certain Genoa salami products. As of June 24, 2025, a total of 72 laboratory-confirmed cases had been reported across three provinces: Alberta (57 cases), Ontario (14 cases), and Manitoba (1 case) [1]. By July 10, 2025, PHAC confirmed that the outbreak had grown to 84 cases, including nine people requiring hospitalization, with no deaths reported to date [3][1]. This represents an increase of about a dozen new illnesses and two additional hospitalizations since PHAC’s last update in late June [3]. Alberta remains the most affected region (67 cases), followed by Ontario (15 cases) and Manitoba (1 case); one related illness has also been reported in a British Columbia resident who had traveled to Alberta [3]. PHAC officials have identified Rea brand Genoa Salami Sweet, Rea brand Genoa Salami Hot, and Bona brand Mild Genova Salami as the source of the outbreak [1].
Recalled Products
The implicated salami products are ready-to-eat deli meats produced by Marini Foods Ltd. On June 10, 2025, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued a food recall warning for Rea brand Genoa salami (Sweet and Hot varieties) and Bona brand Mild Genova salami due to potential Salmonella contamination [2]. The recalled products were distributed in at least three provinces (Alberta, Ontario, and Manitoba) and may have been sold through grocery stores, specialty Italian markets, restaurants, cafés, and deli counters [2][3]. The recall was triggered as part of the outbreak investigation when these salami products were identified as a common exposure among ill individuals. PHAC’s ongoing investigation noted that many people who became sick had eaten the recalled salami in prepared sandwiches or purchased sliced salami at deli counters where these products were served [1].
Investigation Details
Epidemiological data indicate that people began falling ill in mid-April 2025, and new infections continued to occur through at least mid-June 2025 [1]. Those affected by this outbreak range in age from 1 year old to over 100 years old, demonstrating that all age groups are susceptible to infection [1]. The specific strain involved has been identified as Salmonella I 4,[5],12:i:-, a monophasic variant of S. Typhimurium. Laboratory analysis shows this strain is multidrug-resistant, with resistance to multiple antibiotics including streptomycin, kanamycin, ampicillin, and sulfisoxazole [1]. Fortunately, other antibiotics remain effective for treating Salmonella I 4,[5],12:i:- if needed, and most patients have recovered without long-term complications.
PHAC and provincial health authorities are continuing to monitor the situation. Because there can be a lag of 1–6 weeks (11 to 45 days) between a person’s illness onset and the case report reaching national officials, additional outbreak cases may still be identified in the coming weeks [1][3]. At this time, no fatalities have been reported in connection with the outbreak [1].
Symptoms and Health Risks
Salmonellosis (infection caused by Salmonella bacteria) often causes an acute gastrointestinal illness. Healthy individuals infected with Salmonella may experience short-term symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea [3]. These symptoms typically begin 6 to 72 hours after consuming a contaminated product and usually last 4 to 7 days, with most people recovering fully on their own. However, Salmonella infection can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications in vulnerable populations. Young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of serious illness or hospitalization from salmonellosis [3]. In severe cases, the infection can spread beyond the intestines and require intensive medical treatment.
It is important to note that people infected with Salmonella can continue to shed the bacteria and potentially spread the infection to others for days or even weeks after their symptoms have resolved [1]. Strict hygiene and handwashing are recommended for anyone recovering from a Salmonella infection, especially if they are in close contact with others or handle food.
Public Health Advice
Public health officials from PHAC and CFIA advise the public to take the following precautions to protect their health and prevent further spread of this outbreak:
- Check your food supplies – Verify if you have any Rea or Bona brand salami products under recall. Look for the specific lot codes on packages (e.g. 5035 226, 5049 226, 5020 228, 5035 228) that correspond to the recalled batches [2]. These codes can usually be found on the product label or packaging.
- Do not consume or serve – Immediately stop using any recalled salami. Do not eat these products, and ensure they are not served to customers or family members [2][1].
- Dispose or return – If you have the recalled salami, return it to the place of purchase (if the retailer is accepting returns) or throw it out in a sealed bag to prevent others (including animals) from accessing it [2]. Clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the contaminated salami to avoid cross-contamination.
- Monitor your health – If you have consumed the affected products, be vigilant for symptoms of salmonellosis in the week after consumption. If you develop fever, diarrhea, or other symptoms consistent with Salmonella infection, contact your health care provider promptly [2]. Inform them about your exposure to the recalled product.
- Prevent spread – Individuals who have been diagnosed with Salmonella infection should not prepare food for other people until they have fully recovered, to reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria [1]. Caregivers of vulnerable individuals (in hospitals, childcare, eldercare settings, etc.) should exercise additional caution and follow infection control guidelines if Salmonella is suspected or confirmed.
PHAC continues to coordinate with the CFIA and provincial public health authorities to investigate and control this outbreak. The CFIA’s food safety investigation may lead to further recalls if additional contaminated products are identified. The public is encouraged to follow recall alerts and updates from official sources. This outbreak remains active and under close surveillance by public health agencies, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available [1]. Consumers and businesses are reminded to practice safe food handling and preparation techniques to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, and to stay informed on recall notices related to this outbreak.
References
- Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). Public health notice: Outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to Rea brand Genoa salami and Bona brand Genova salami – Update. June 24, 2025.
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Food recall warning: Rea brand Genoa Salami and Bona brand Genova Salami recalled due to Salmonella. June 10, 2025.
- The Canadian Press. Salami salmonella outbreak: 2 more hospitalized, dozen new illnesses reported. July 11, 2025.