Vancouver, BC – Turning of the leaves signals the arrival of apple season and the Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Perry Kendall and the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) are once again reminding the public to make sure apple juice and cider are pasteurized and caution should be taken when enjoying this autumn treat.
Unpasteurized apple juice and cider, commonly available at local farmers markets, can become infected with harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. It must be noted that the vast majority of juice sold in BC is safe, but the safety of unpasteurized apple juice and cider cannot be guaranteed. The BCCDC strongly advises that unpasteurized apple juice and cider be boiled for at least one minute before consumption. Chief medical health officers across Canada have stated that only pasteurization can guarantee that apple juice and cider are free of pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella.
Symptoms of infection from E. coli or Salmonella can include stomach cramps, vomiting, fever and bloody diarrhea and can occur within two to 10 days of consuming contaminated food. Up to eight per cent of people infected with E. coli O157:H7 can have severe kidney damage which may lead to death, with the greatest risk in children under five years of age. Health Canada advises children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems not to consume unpasteurized products.
To avoid infection by foodborne bacteria, retailers and consumers should check with the producer or vendor before purchasing apple juice or cider and determine if it has been pasteurized. If the label does not provide this information, consumers can ask their retailer or producer, or phone the information number on the product label. When in doubt, consumers should take precautions and consider the risks before consumption.
Smart tips for consumers:
- Bring unpasteurized apple juice and cider to a boil for one minute before consuming.
- Avoid serving unpasteurized apple juice and cider products to those most at risk (young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems).
- Freezing and refrigeration do not make unpasteurized apple juice or cider safe.
- Ensure freshness and quality by refrigerating apple juice and cider products and respecting their best-before dates.
- If you believe that you have become ill as a result of drinking unpasteurized apple juice or cider, see a doctor immediately and notify your local Health Authority.
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Media contact:
Judy Hsu
BCCDC Communications
604-660-2343 or 604-632-7629
