Urgent Nationwide Garlic Powder Recall: Check Your Pantry Now to Avoid Health Risks

Canadian shoppers are being urged to check their spice racks after Heavenly Spices brand Garlic Powder was pulled from Dollarama shelves nationwide over possible Bacillus cereus contamination, a bacterium that can trigger severe food-borne illness. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced the Class 2 recall on July 17, 2026, warning consumers, retailers and food-service operators not to use, sell or serve the affected seasoning. Bacillus cereus can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhea within hours of ingestion, with symptoms sometimes lasting up to 24 hours. Product details • Brand: Heavenly Spices • Description: Garlic Powder • Package size: 70 g plastic shaker bottle • UPC: 6 29377 40815 1 • Sold exclusively at: Dollarama locations across Canada • Best-before codes: All codes up to and including 2026 JUL 15 Why the recall matters Garlic powder is often added after cooking, so any bacteria present may survive and proliferate in room-temperature dishes. Because Dollarama operates more than 1,500 stores, the seasoning could already be in millions of Canadian kitchens, heightening the public-health risk. What to do if you have the product 1. Do not taste or use the spice, even if it looks and smells normal. 2. Seal the bottle in a plastic bag and discard it, or return it to Dollarama for a refund. 3. Wash any containers or surfaces that contacted the powder with hot, soapy water. 4. Monitor for symptoms; seek medical care if severe vomiting or diarrhea develops. Preventing spice-borne illness • Buy herbs and spices from reputable brands with strong food-safety controls. • Store seasonings in a cool, dry place to limit bacterial growth. • Add dried spices during cooking when possible so heat destroys pathogens. The CFIA says it is verifying that Dollarama has removed the garlic powder from distribution and may expand the recall if further contaminated lots are identified. Consumers can sign up for e-mail alerts at recalls-rappels.canada.ca to stay informed about future food-safety notices.