FDA recalls tomato sauces over deadly botulism risk

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent recall for three tomato-based sauces due to a risk of botulism, a rare but potentially fatal form of food poisoning.

While no illnesses have been reported so far, the FDA is warning that these sauces may not have been properly acidified or processed, which could allow the Clostridium botulinum bacterium to grow.

If consumed, it could cause serious health complications.

The affected products were not named in the preliminary notice, but consumers are urged to check their pantries and return the sauces to the point of purchase for a full refund.

The FDA notes that improperly processed or low-acid canned foods are at particular risk for this kind of contamination.

What Is Botulism?

Botulism is a rare but serious illness that affects the nervous system. Symptoms may include:

• Dizziness
• Double vision
• Slurred speech or difficulty swallowing
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty breathing
• Abdominal bloating or constipation

The FDA emphasized the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if anyone experiences these symptoms after consuming the recalled products.

Botulism can progress rapidly, and in severe cases, can lead to paralysis or death if not treated promptly with antitoxins.

What you should do

• Do not eat any tomato sauces you suspect may be part of the recall
• Return the product to the store where purchased for a full refund
• Contact your doctor immediately if symptoms appear

The FDA says it is continuing to investigate and will release further details as they become available, including specific brand names and lot numbers.

This was reported by Express.

This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, who may have used AI in the preparation