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NUNAVUT - Grocery stores in Nunavut have pulled some brands of processed meat off the shelves after Maple Leaf Foods issued a massive recall.

Recalled food list

Last week, Canadian health officials confirmed the link between meat processed at one of the company's plants and the Listeria bacteria responsible for five deaths in Ontario and 10 other deaths under investigation across Canada.

As of last week, there were 29 confirmed cases of illness related to the meats.

The product recall list jumped from 20 to more than 220 items, with products still being added.

Now included on the list are Maple Leaf products sold under the Schneiders, Hygrade, Parma, Hickory Farms, Shopsy's, Western Family, Artisan Collection, Our Compliments, Campfire, Overlander and Safeway names.

NorthMart in Iqaluit pulled the products from its shelves the first day the recall was issued.

"Everything that we pulled off is garbage and it's in the dumpster," said meat manager Harry Kuthe.

He added he has been explaining the recall to customers with concerns.

"People are obviously worried and wondering why the rest of the Maple Leaf isn't pulled off or contaminated in any way," he said.

Listeria symptoms can mimic the flu and can include high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting, cramps and diarrhea.

Young, healthy adults may experience flu-like symptoms. The elderly, young children, pregnant women and people with weak immune systems are at a higher risk of serious illness.

People who have purchased the recalled products are urged to throw them out or return them to the store for disposal.

A complete list of recalled products is available at www.nnsl.com.