CFIA sucks at writing press releases.

Information that other health agencies consider pertinent in a suspected outbreak of foodborne illness, like the number of suspected sick people, or how a positive test for a food product was obtained, are rarely included, leaving journalists and others to guess. It fuels suspicion, conspiracy theories and perceptions of incompetence, anything but confidence.

So this is part of what CFIA issues about 4 a.m. EST.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Intercity Packers (East) Ltd are warning the public, distributors and food service establishments not to consume, sell, serve or use the beef burger meat mix described below because the product may be contaminated with Salmonella.

The affected product, Intercity Packers Ltd brand Beef Burger Meat Mix 80/20, is sold in 5 kg cases (each containing 2 x 2.5 kg units) bearing UPC 90066172180172 and lot code 046. The affected product can be identified by the Establishment number (EST) 503 that appears on the outer cases. The chubs inside the case do not carry any label.

This product has been distributed to public and commercial food establishments in Ontario and Newfoundland and possibly retailers in Newfoundland. Consumers in Newfoundland are advised to check with their store of purchase to determine if they have the affected product.

This is an ongoing food safety investigation. Provincial and local public health authorities are investigating an outbreak of Salmonella illnesses in Ottawa and southern Ontario in collaboration with federal health partners including the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada.