Foodborne Disease in Canada - 1975 Annual Summary

Data on foodborne disease in Canada in 1975 were compared with data for 1974. A total of 838 incidents, comprising 710 outbreaks and 128 single cases, and involving 7106 ill persons, was recorded for 1975. The number of outbreaks increased by 89% and single cases by 129% over those reported for 1974. As in 1974, Staphylococcus aureus was responsible for more incidents (37) than any other agent. Other incidents were caused by Salmonella (25), Clostridium perfringens (12), Clostridium botulinum (6), suspect mold and yeast (13) and suspect Streptococcus sp. (8). In both years, non-microbiological agents, mainly chemical, accounted for less than a quarter of the incidents of known etiology. Two persons were reported to have died through foodborne disease. About 41% of incidents and 50% of cases were associated with meat and poultry. Vegetables, fruits, bakery products, sandwiches and Chinese food also played a prominent role. Mishandling of food took place mainly in foodservice establishments (25% of incidents) or homes (20%). More than 60% of reported foodborne disease incidents occurred in Ontario. The number of incidents per 100,000 population was highest in the Northwest Territories (10.6), Ontario (6.4) and British Columbia (4.7). Narrative reports of five foodborne outbreaks are presented.