Food Microbiology - Targeted Surveys - Final Report - Bacterial Pathogens in a Variety of Refrigerated, Multi-Ingredient, Ready-to-Eat Processed Foods - April 1, 2013 to March 31, 2018

​A targeted survey on bacterial pathogens in a variety of refrigerated, multi-ingredient, ready-to-eat processed foods analysed 4,851 samples for Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, and generic E. coli. Additionally, of the 4,851 samples, 3,282 samples were analysed for Bacillus cereus, Clostridium perfringens and Staphylococcus aureus. Clostridium perfringens, Salmonella and generic E. coli were not found in any of the samples. Bacillus cereus was found in two samples, Staphylococcus aureus was found in one sample and Listeria monocytogenes was found in five samples. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency conducted appropriate follow-up activities such as facility inspections and additional sampling. Three of the Listeria monocytogenes positive samples resulted in recalls of the affected products. No illnesses were reported in association with any of the positive samples.