2022 Hot Topics

Question 1

What is aconitine?

Answer 1

Aconitine is a highly toxic alkaloid substance derived from a genus of plants called Aconitum. Also called wolfsbane or monkshood. Found in herbs, roots, or flowers of these plants.

It can be found across the northern hemisphere and in some traditional Chinese medicines if processing methods have not been adequately used to eliminate the toxin.

Question 2

What are the effects of aconitine consumption?

Answer 2

Neuro - facial & extremity numbness, dizziness
Cardiac - irregular ventricular contraction.
In large quantities –> fatal arrhythmia.

GI distress - nausea, vomiting, cramping
Effects occur quickly within an hour of consumption

Question 3

What is treatment for aconitine poisoning?

Answer 3

No specific antidote. Supportive treatment.

Question 4

Steps in FIORP (Foodborne Illness Outbreak Response Protocol)?

Answer 4

(Protocol developed by PHAC, HC, and CFIA for multi-jurisdictional FI outbreaks)
p.103 Austin’s summary notes
Step 1: TRIGGERS
- e.g., food test result, consumer complaints, inspection finding, recall in other country
Step 2: FOOD SAFETY INVESTIGATION
- e.g., trace back, trace forward, on-site CFIA visit, lab testing
- consider epi criteria - plausibility, temporality, consistency, strength of association
Step 3: HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT
- hazard identification, hazard characterization, exposure assessment, risk characterization
Step 4: RECALL PROCESS
- voluntary vs. mandatory
Step 5: FOLLOW UP PROCESS
- recall complete, CFIA continues to work with processor, manufacturer or importer to ensure any problems that led to recall are resolved