Alleged spread of E.coli and amoebiasis at a food facility in the Calgary region
A gastrointestinal outbreak has been reported at a food facility named Saskatoon Farm in Calgary, Canada. The current outbreak is presumed to be caused by E. coli and Entamoeba histolytica, the parasite responsible for amoebiasis.
According to Alberta Health Services (AHS), as of late July 2025, a total of 235 illnesses are linked to the outbreak. Of these, 18 cases have been lab-confirmed as E. coli, and 3 cases have tested positive for amoebiasis. AHS reported 26 probable E. coli cases and 9 amoebiasis infections by July 28, 2025.
The symptoms reported include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fevers, and chills. Amoebiasis symptoms can vary; many infected individuals are asymptomatic, but it can cause gastrointestinal illness and, in rare cases, severe infections of the liver, lungs, heart, and brain.
Two people have been hospitalized so far due to the outbreak, with one discharged. AHS advises anyone who dined at the restaurant between July 1 and July 16 and who experiences gastrointestinal symptoms to contact Alberta Health Link at 811 for medical advice.
The farm has switched to a different water source that has been confirmed safe. Testing of the farm’s water supply and food handling areas is underway, and the kitchen is undergoing deep cleaning. The restaurant's food services remain closed by order of AHS, though the rest of Saskatoon Farm is open and considered safe.
Given possible contamination from heavy rainfall affecting the farm's groundwater (likely cistern water used in the restaurant), experts recommend consuming bottled beverages and being cautious about untreated water sources in such rural agricultural areas.
Some affected patrons have expressed frustration with the farm’s response, describing delays and generic communications from management.
The outbreak is still ongoing, with no official announcement of its resolution. Consumers are urged to seek medical help if symptomatic after recent visits.
- The media has been buzzing with reports about the ongoing gastrointestinal outbreak at Saskatoon Farm in Toronto, Canada.
- The health and wellness community is closely monitoring the situation, with a focus on digestive health, as the outbreak is presumed to be caused by E. coli and Entamoeba histolytica.
- Eye-health professionals are also keeping an eye on the situation, as amoebiasis, caused by Entamoeba histolytica, can potentially affect the eyes in rare cases.
- In the business world, the outbreak has taken a toll on Saskatoon Farm, causing closure of their food services.
- Fitness and exercise enthusiasts should be aware of the outbreak, as intense workouts can strain the body and potentially exacerbate symptoms if one has been exposed.
- Mental-health experts suggest that those affected by the outbreak may experience stress or anxiety, which they recommend addressing through proper nutrition and care for neurological disorders.
- Skin-conditions specialists note that frequent and sustained diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which can impact skin health, making it essential for those affected to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet.
