The USFDA has indicated that their investigation into the Romaine lettuce contaminated in the November harvest, originated from California. Canada’s import restrictions have accordingly been increased to ensure none of this product enters Canada.
If your supplier can ensure the product in inventory is not from this region, the CFIA is advising it can be released. A copy of the CFIA statement has been posted on our website and is below.
Drawing from this information, we have put together a draft template of wording members could consider posting in signage for in-store use. Many consumers will undoubtedly still have concerns, and we thought this may be helpful.
In light of the government’s advisory to consumers to not consume Romaine lettuce, and given the shelf life of this product, retailers were pulling Romaine lettuce off the shelves. But as we move forward with putting fresh product back on the shelves, grocers are strongly advised by the CFIA to ensure the origin and source of their product from their supplier and that it can be traced.
The CFIA is strongly encouraging retailers to post signage to consumers advising them that they have verified the Romaine Lettuce in store, is not from California.
As you know better than any supplier, it is you, the retail grocer, who is on the front line and your reputation with the consumer that is at stake. At this time, while the Public Health Agency alert to consumers to not buy or consume Romaine lettuce is still in effect, they are currently reviewing their messaging in light of the USFDA announcement. But we wanted you to have the most up to date information we have received.
Suggested signage wording:
Download CFIA Statement ENG
Download CFIA Statement FR
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