The hepatitis A virus has been detected in a sample of pineapple chunks distributed to a grocery store in Grande Prairie. The Western Family brand fresh pineapple chunks were sold in ready-to-go cups at the Save On Foods in the Gateway Power Centre.
Overall, the fruit was distributed to 58 stores in B.C. and Alberta and may have been on sale from August 12th. They had a best before date of August 19th.
Alberta Health Services says the risk of infection is considered to be low at this time and no illness has been reported so far. Anyone who thinks they may have eaten the pineapple product is encouraged to call Health Link by dialing 8-1-1. Anyone who froze it should throw it out.
Hepatitis A is a liver infection spread through contaminated food or water or direct contact with an infected person. Its symptoms include tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, and abdominal pain and fever. Illness can occur within 15 to 50 days after exposure to the virus, but usually within 28 to 30 days.
