Full Breakdown
Settlement Reached in Silk and Great Value Plant Milk Class Action
11/22/2025, 9:32:45 AM
Overview of the Class Action Lawsuit
A $6.5 million settlement has been reached in a class-action lawsuit related to a listeriosis outbreak linked to Silk Canada and Great Value plant milk products. The lawsuit involves Danone Inc., Walmart Canada Corp., and Intact Insurance Company, and is set for approval by the Superior Court of Quebec on January 26, 2024. The outbreak, which began in July 2023, resulted in three fatalities and numerous illnesses, prompting a national recall of several plant-based milk products.
Details of the Outbreak and Recall
The listeriosis outbreak was traced back to a production line at a facility in Pickering, Ontario, where Silk brand almond, coconut, almond-coconut, and oat milks were manufactured. Great Value brand almond milk was also recalled due to its production on the same line, although it was not directly linked to the outbreak. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) faced criticism for its inspection protocols, as a report revealed flaws in an algorithm-based system that failed to adequately prioritize inspections, leaving many facilities, including the Pickering site, unsupervised.
Settlement Terms and Compensation
The settlement agreement outlines compensation tiers for affected individuals, ranging from $400 for mild symptoms to $300,000 for cases resulting in death. Claimants must provide varying levels of documentation based on the severity of their symptoms. The settlement also covers administrative and legal fees, as well as costs incurred by provincial healthcare insurers related to the outbreak. Individuals who consumed the recalled products and experienced symptoms are automatically included in the class unless they opt out.
Official Statements and Responses
Danone Canada, while denying any wrongdoing, expressed its commitment to cooperating with all parties involved to ensure a timely resolution. Walmart Canada acknowledged the settlement and reiterated its commitment to food safety. Intact Insurance Company stated it had no further comments beyond Danone's statement.
Criticism of Food Safety Protocols
The CFIA's inspection practices have come under scrutiny following the outbreak. A review by CFIA Inspector-General Scott Rattray highlighted the need for an overhaul of the inspection system, which had failed to meet annual targets and allowed facilities to operate without proper scrutiny. In response, the CFIA has initiated a comprehensive inspection campaign and increased the responsibility of companies to ensure the safety of their products.
What's Next
The settlement agreement is contingent upon the dismissal of a separate proceeding initiated in British Columbia in the summer of 2024. If approved, the settlement aims to provide a nationwide resolution to all claims related to the outbreak.
Verbatim Quotes
- “At Walmart Canada, food safety is a top priority and we acted swiftly to respond to this issue,” — Stephanie Fusco, Spokesperson, Walmart Canada
- “It also provides an efficient resolution to the case, without the risks associated with a lengthy trial.” — Danone Canada spokesperson Jennifer Vincent
This settlement marks a significant step in addressing the consequences of the listeriosis outbreak and aims to provide compensation to those affected while highlighting the need for improved food safety measures in Canada.
