Grifols has paused plasma collections at its Canadian clinics following a government investigation into safety protocols. This decision comes after the deaths of two donors, including 22-year-old Rodiyat Alabede, who died after a procedure in Winnipeg in 2025. Health Canada issued a formal notice of non-compliance earlier this week, citing failure to follow established blood regulations.
Regulators identified multiple deficiencies at the company's facilities. Inspection reports noted inadequate staff training, poor record-keeping, and standard operating procedure failures. Reports indicate that collection alarms were ignored by staff, and the company failed to address previous warnings. The government investigation revealed significant gaps between initial autopsy findings and subsequent medical summaries.
Grifols maintains that the deaths are not connected to the donation process. The company stated the pause is a proactive measure while it works with health authorities to address the concerns raised by the latest audit. Previously, these private clinics paid donors up to 100 Canadian dollars per session.
Patient advocates argue that the oversight was insufficient and are requesting a formal inquest into the deaths. They contend that inexperienced staff and poor safety standards created unnecessary risks for donors. The situation highlights ongoing debates regarding private, for-profit plasma collection in regions where it is permitted.