E. coli Outbreak Prompts Recall of Pillsbury Pizza Pops in Canada

Health authorities are currently investigating an E. coli outbreak linked to certain Pillsbury brand Pizza Pops, resulting in at least five hospitalizations across Canada.

 

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has reported 23 confirmed cases of E. coli infections spanning seven provinces, including Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

Individuals affected range in age from 1 to 87 years, with symptoms appearing between early October and late November.

 

In response, General Mills has initiated a voluntary recall of specific Pillsbury Pizza Pops products sold in Canada, particularly those with "better if used by" dates from June 9, 2026, to June 14, 2026.

 

The recall encompasses the following varieties:

 

Pillsbury Pepperoni and Bacon Pizza Pops (30 count)

 

Package UPC: 069052129619

 

Recalled Better if Used by Dates: 09JN2026WN and 10JN2026WN

 

Pillsbury Pepperoni and Bacon Pizza Pops (8 count)

 

Package UPC: 069052129671

 

Recalled Better if Used by Dates: 09JN2026WN and 10JN2026WN

 

Pillsbury Frank’s RedHot Pepperoni and Bacon Pizza Pops (4 count)

 

Package UPC: 069052129473

 

Recalled Better if Used by Date: 14JN2026WN

 

Supremo Extreme Pepperoni and Bacon Pizza Pops (30 count)

 

Package UPC: 069052469012

 

Recalled Better if Used by Dates: 10JN2026WN, 11JN2026WN, and 12JN2026WN

 

Consumers are advised to check their freezers and dispose of any products matching these descriptions.

 

For further inquiries or to report product disposal, individuals can contact General Mills Consumer Relations at 1-800-230-8103.

 

It's important to note that freezing or microwaving these products does not reliably eliminate E. coli bacteria.

 

According to Lawrence Goodridge, a professor and Canada Research Chair in foodborne pathogen dynamics at the University of Guelph, freezing halts bacterial growth but doesn't kill it, while microwaving may leave cold spots where bacteria can survive.

 

Symptoms of E. coli infection include nausea, vomiting, headache, mild fever, severe stomach cramps, and watery or bloody diarrhea.

 

While most individuals recover within a week, certain groups, such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk for severe illness.

 

Health officials emphasize the importance of proper food handling and cooking practices to prevent such outbreaks.

 

Consumers are urged to stay informed and adhere to recall notices to ensure public safety.

 

For more information on this recall and updates on the investigation, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada's website or contact local health authorities.

 

As the situation develops, staying vigilant and following official guidance is crucial to safeguarding public health.

 

For a brief overview of the outbreak, you can watch the following video:

 

E. coli infections linked to Pillsbury Pizza Pops

 

Note: The video below provides a summary of the current situation regarding the E. coli outbreak linked to Pillsbury Pizza Pops.