The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has temporarily banned pistachio imports from Iran.

This decision aims to protect Canadians during a Salmonella outbreak.

The CFIA said in a statement that all pistachios and pistachio-containing products from Iran will be restricted from entering Canada.

Importers must now provide proof that their shipments do not originate from Iran. If they cannot, the shipments will either be tested for Salmonella or refused entry.

The Public Health Agency of Canada said more than 100 laboratory-confirmed Salmonella infections have been reported across the country.

The agency said several food recall notifications have been linked to pistachio kernels and products from Iran.

The CFIA said the measures will remain in place while officials continue their food safety investigation, surveillance and inspections.

The agency added that importers who fail to meet federal requirements could face enforcement actions, including monetary penalties, licence suspension or cancellation, or prosecution.