Listeria Outbreak Linked to Toronto Milk Plant

A listeria outbreak linked to Joriki Inc., a plant-based milk facility in Pickering, Ontario, has resulted in three deaths and at least 20 infections across several provinces, prompting a recall of Silk and Great Value brand products. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) found that the facility failed to adhere to listeria prevention protocols, including inadequate environmental swabbing and finished product testing. Following the outbreak, production at Joriki Inc. has been halted, and a significant cleanup is underway. Previously, the CFIA assessed the facility as 'low risk' based on past inspections and surveys, leading to a lack of thorough licensing checks. The agency is monitoring the situation closely and will not allow production to resume until all safety measures are verified. The incident underscores the critical need for rigorous hygiene practices in food production to protect consumer health.