recalled pizza pops

Check Your Freezer: Expanded Recall of Pillsbury Pizza Pops in Canada Due to E. coli Concerns

If you have Pillsbury Pizza Pops tucked away in the back of your freezer, now is the time to check the labels. In a significant move that has drawn attention across the country, General Mills has expanded a previously issued voluntary recall of select Pillsbury Pizza Pops products in Canada. This action is being taken due to potential E. coli O26 contamination, a serious health concern that has prompted warnings from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

The recall, originally announced in late December 2025, has now been broadened to include a wider variety of flavors and packaging sizes. This development is part of an ongoing investigation into a multi-province outbreak of E. coli infections.

The Latest on the Pizza Pops Recall: What You Need to Know

The core of the situation is straightforward and urgent: certain batches of Pillsbury Pizza Pops are being pulled from the marketplace because they may be contaminated with E. coli O26. According to reports from CP24 and Classic107, the recall expansion affects numerous types of the popular frozen snack, including three-cheese, pepperoni, pepperoni and bacon, deluxe, and 3-meat varieties.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has released specific details to help consumers identify the affected products. The recall applies to various packaging formats, including boxes of 4, 6, and 8, as well as single-serving microwaveable pouches. The critical identifier for these products is the "Better if Used By" date. The expanded recall covers products with "Better if Used By" dates ranging from June 8, 2026, to June 21, 2026.

The trigger for this recall was findings by the CFIA during its investigation into a foodborne illness outbreak. As of late January 2026, the outbreak linked to this recall had resulted in 23 confirmed patients across multiple provinces, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Understanding the Threat: E. coli O26

While the term "E. coli" is commonly heard, E. coli O26 is a specific and potentially dangerous strain. It is a type of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), which can cause severe illness.

Symptoms of an STEC infection can include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. While some people recover within a week, the illness can lead to a life-threatening type of kidney failure known as Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). This condition is most likely to occur in young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) advises that anyone who believes they may have consumed a recalled product and is experiencing symptoms should contact a healthcare provider immediately.

A Chronology of the Expanding Recall

The current situation is the result of an evolving investigation. Understanding the timeline helps clarify the scope of the concern.

• December 21, 2025: General Mills initiates a voluntary recall of specific Pillsbury Pizza Pops products. This initial action was based on early findings and was intended to mitigate potential risk.
• January 2026: The CFIA continues its investigation into a growing number of reported illnesses across Canada.
• January 26, 2026: Following further investigation and as part of its foodborne illness outbreak response, the CFIA announces a significant expansion of the recall. As reported by VOCM and other news outlets, this expansion added more flavors and packaging types to the list of affected products. This step was crucial to ensure all potentially contaminated items are removed from consumer freezers and store shelves.

This expansion demonstrates the thoroughness of the CFIA's investigation. As stated in reports, the recall is a direct result of the agency's findings as it works to protect public health.

Broader Context: Food Safety and Frozen Foods

This recall, while concerning for consumers, also underscores the effectiveness of Canada's food safety system. The multi-layered process—from manufacturer detection and voluntary recalls to government agency investigation and mandatory enforcement—illustrates a robust framework designed to protect the public.

Pillsbury Pizza Pops are a staple in many Canadian households, valued for their convenience and nostalgic appeal. A product recall of this scale can impact consumer trust not just in the brand, but in the frozen food category as a whole. However, history has shown that swift and transparent action by companies and regulators helps to maintain that trust in the long run.

In the past, recalls involving other major food products in Canada have led to improved industry standards and regulatory oversight. Each event serves as a reminder of the complexities of the modern food supply chain and the importance of vigilance at every stage, from production to the home freezer. For consumers, it reinforces the simple but vital habit of checking product labels and staying informed about food safety alerts.

Immediate Steps and Consumer Impact

The immediate effect of this expanded recall is a clear call to action for consumers across Canada. The CFIA has issued a firm warning: Do not consume, sell, or serve the recalled products.

Here is what you should do if you have Pillsbury Pizza Pops in your home: 1. Check the Label: Look for the product name (Pillsbury Pizza Pops) and the "Better if Used By" date. If the date falls between June 8, 2026, and June 21, 2026, the product is part of the recall. 2. Dispose of the Product: The safest course of action is to throw the product away or return it to the point of purchase. Do not attempt to cook or consume it, even if it looks and smells normal. 3. Clean Your Freezer: As a general precaution, clean your freezer area to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.

The social and economic implications are also noteworthy. Retailers are required to remove these products from their shelves, and the brand faces the challenge of managing a public relations issue while ensuring consumer safety. For the public, this event is a stark reminder of the real-world impact of foodborne illnesses and the importance of heeding official health advisories.

Looking Ahead: What Comes Next?

As the situation continues to develop, the focus remains on containment and resolution. The CFIA will continue its investigation and conduct food safety testing. The outcome of these tests will determine if further products need to be recalled or if the scope of the recall can be narrowed.

For General Mills, the path forward involves cooperating fully with the investigation and communicating transparently with the public. For consumers, the key is to remain vigilant but not alarmed. Check your freezers, follow the official guidance, and stay updated through reliable sources like the CFIA website.

While this recall is a significant disruption, it is also a testament to a food safety system that is actively working to protect Canadians. The swift action taken to expand the recall demonstrates a commitment to public health, ensuring that potential risks are addressed before they can cause further harm. For now, the message is clear: check your freezer, and if in doubt, throw it out.