The Canadian Food Inspection Agency imposed a temporary ban on imports of pistachios and pistachio-containing products from Iran, citing an ongoing Salmonella outbreak. The measure took effect Saturday and applies at the border and to import licensing conditions.
The action aims to reduce foodborne risk to consumers and tighten controls on suppliers linked to recalled goods.
Importers must prove shipments do not originate from Iran or face refusal at entry. Where documentation is provided, authorities will hold and test shipments for Salmonella.
Public Health Agency of Canada data show 105 laboratory-confirmed illnesses across six provinces as of September 24, with 16 hospitalizations and no deaths. The investigation remains active.
Salmonella contamination does not change the look or smell of nuts, and pistachios are often consumed without further cooking.
People experiencing symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps should seek medical advice, particularly young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems who face higher risk of severe illness.
Under the CFIA order, the requirement to demonstrate non-Iranian origin is now a condition of a Safe Food for Canadians licence.
Non-compliance can trigger administrative monetary penalties, licence suspension or cancellation, or prosecution.
CFIA said the restrictions will remain while it analyzes investigation results and surveillance data. The agency did not provide an end date.
Recalls tied to the outbreak have expanded since late July and include pistachio kernels as well as products such as pastries and chocolate.
PHAC reports illnesses from early March to early September, with cases concentrated in Quebec and Ontario.
Investigators detected outbreak strains in samples of recalled pistachios and Dubai-style chocolate containing pistachios.
