THUNDER BAY – HEALTH – The Health Unit is asking the public not to drink any Kakabeka Crystal water products due to evidence of bacterial contamination. The owner of Kakabeka Crystal is cooperating with the Health Unit in a voluntary recall, and an active investigation is underway.
Testing of some Kakabeka Crystal water products has shown evidence of significant bacterial overgrowth where none would be expected.
The type of bacteria has not yet been identified; however, contamination of water with certain bacteria can cause gastrointestinal illness in humans (e.g., diarrhea and abdominal pain; occasionally, illness can be more severe). There is no evidence of increased gastrointestinal illness in Thunder Bay and District at this time.
Due to the potential risk to people consuming these water products, the Health Unit advises against drinking Kakabeka Crystal water products until more information is known. Products range from individual-sized bottles to jugs used in water coolers.
Public Health Inspectors have been working closely with the facility and testing at various points in the bottling process is being done. Further information will be provided as it becomes available.
