Toronto Public Health has confirmed that the source of the Staphylococcus aureus in the Cronut burger that sickened more than 200 people at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) was the maple-bacon jam. Dr. David McKeown, Tortonto’s Medical Officer of Health said in a statement, “new lab results indicate that the maple bacon jam, which is one component of the Cronut burger, is the casue of food-borne illnesses at the CNE. We have ensurd the contaminated product is not served. There is no risk to the public.”
Epic Burger and Waffles will be allowed to reopen as long as they do not serve this product from the supplier, Le Dolci, and as long as all food safety requirements are met. As of 8:00 am August 27, 2013, there have been 223 reports of illness from consumers who visited the CNE. More than 150 people have been interviewed by public health officials. Not all of the ill persons reported eating the Cronut burger, but the only common food consumed by those who were sick is that product.
Symptoms of the illness include upset stomach, diarrhea, fever, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and dehydration. The investigation now focuses on Le Dolci, the supplier of the jam, to find out how it was contaminated. Le Dolci has voluntarily ceased production of the product.
