OTTAWA, Ontario – The Public Health Agency of Canada confirmed that five E. coli O157:H7 infections are linked to the specific strain found in frozen beef burgers under recall. The outbreak strain was found in Butcher’s Choice Garlic Peppercorn frozen beef burgers. The product was distributed nationally, and has since been recalled.

PHAC identified two cases in Alberta, and three other cases in Ontario. The agency said the individuals in became sick between early September and late November. All five people have recovered or are recovering, PHAC said.

“Investigations into outbreaks of foodborne illness can be complex,” PHAC said. “Since early December 2012, the agency has been leading a committee that includes public health and food safety experts from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Health Canada and Provincial and Territorial Health Authorities. The committee meets regularly to share and review the latest information and determine what actions should be taken to protect Canadians.”

Cardinal Meat Specialists Ltd., Brampton, Ontario, manufactured the burgers and continues to be the subject of a CFIA food safety investigation.