Sunflower seeds prompt many recalls

Listeria monocytogenes bacteria infecting sunflower seeds from SunOpta company has prompted recalls for a long and growing list of products, from Nature Valley bars made by General Mills to similar products made by Bassé Frères Alimentation Oriental (2013) Inc.for Loblaws under its President’s Choice label.

The company is also recalling its own brand.

Earlier recalls were for:

Quaker brand quinoa granola bars.

Spitz brand sunflower kernels.

CLIF Bar brand Sierra Trail Mix energy bars.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency also says there’s a Listeria-based recall of Kashi brand Trail Mix Whole Grain Bars, but does not say on its website whether that is also because of sunflower seeds.

SunOpta, which has its headquarters in Minnesota and an office in Mississauga, boasts on its website that it’s products are organic and non-GMO.